Posted 6 June 2025:
THE RENOWNED ARCHITECT-COLOURIST AND PROFESSOR OF COLOUR AT ITECOM ART & DESIGN, DR. LARISSA NOURY FROM PARIS WRITES ON THE INTERNATIONAL MEDITERRANEAN ART RESIDENCY TIRANA ‘25, HELD AT TIRANA, ALBANIA BETWEEN 18 AND 25 MAY 2025.
International Mediterranean Art Residency Tirana ‘25: A Celebration of Culture, Creativity & Cross-Border Inspiration
IN THE HEART OF TIRANA, WHERE HISTORY MEETS MODERN VIBRANCE, THE INTERNATIONAL MEDITERRANEAN ART RESIDENCY TIRANA ‘25 UNFOLDED AS A LUMINOUS CELEBRATION OF CREATIVITY AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE.
This year, with Tirana honored as the Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue, the city welcomed visionary artists from across the Mediterranean, each carrying the essence of their homeland’s artistic legacy.
Renowned Architect-Colourist and Professor of Colour at Itecom Art & Design, Larissa Noury, from Paris, lent her profound insights to this remarkable gathering, capturing the spirit of artistic transformation and shared inspirations.
The residency, now in its second edition, stood as a beacon of unity, where visual artists breathed new life into tradition and explored innovative expressions.
Organized by the esteemed ANTIK Association in partnership with the Municipality of Tirana, the event seamlessly blended heritage and modern artistic perspectives, reaffirming the Mediterranean’s role as a melting pot of ideas and aesthetics.
Here, amid the city’s rich tapestry of influences, creativity flourished, forging connections that transcend borders and time.
The International Mediterranean Art Residency Tirana ‘25 became a true meeting ground for artistic minds, drawing creators from across the Mediterranean and beyond. Artists from Greece, Italy, France, Turkey, Poland, Cyprus, Croatia, Ukraine, Russia, Montenegro, Slovenia, Bosnia, Kosovo, Herzegovina, the United States and Great Britain came together, each bringing their own unique perspectives, traditions and artistic languages.
This cultural exchange was more than an event—it was a bridge between histories, styles and ideas. Through shared experiences, exhibitions and creative dialogues, the residency fostered deep connections, highlighting the essence of Mediterranean unity and innovation.
With the support of Bashkia Tiranë, Tirana Kryeqyteti Mesdhetar I Kulturë dhe Dialogut 2025, the Ministry of Economy, Culture, and Innovation, and Shoqata Antik, a dynamic and enriching program was carefully curated. Generous contributions from sponsors including Lagja “Kastriot,” Rruga “Ramiz Aranitasi,” Teatri “Bylis,” and Fier Albania ensured that artists had the perfect stage to immerse themselves in meaningful artistic exploration.
In Tirana, where the past and present converge, inspiration flourished—proof that creativity knows no borders.
Nestled in the breathtaking embrace of Dajti National Park, the International Mediterranean Art Residency “Tirana ‘25” found its perfect home at King Park Resort. With panoramic views, fresh mountain air and tranquil surroundings, artists immersed themselves in an atmosphere designed for inspiration and reflection. Beyond the serenity of the resort, the residency unfolded into a journey through Tirana’s cultural treasures. Visits to museums like Bunk Art and the House of Leaves, vibrant art galleries, the bustling New Bazaar and the ancient Tirana Mosaic enriched the experience, offering deep connections to history, culture and local traditions.
Encouraged to capture the spirit of the region, artists poured their creativity into works that celebrated both personal vision and Albania’s artistic heritage.
“Artists were free to choose their own subject for artworks. The organizers encouraged artists to dedicate one work to historical and touristic resources of the region. Artists are required to leave two artworks behind for the organization. One of them will be part of the Tirana Municipality art collection. A final exhibition and catalogue will immortalize these moments of artistic dialogue, weaving them into the cultural fabric of Tirana,” reflects Saimir Ahmeti, Project Manager.
Dr. Larissa Noury, entrusted with portraying the colorful soul of France, embraced the Mediterranean Art Residency “Tirana ‘25” with passion and vision.
“This is my third time in Albania and I am very happy to participate in the art symposium. My goal is to show the Mediterranean flavor, cultural features, customs and architectural traditions of the people with my original technique of tactile painting that allows us to create with new impressionist style the dreamlike images that are between reality and abstraction,” remarked Dr. Larissa Noury.
Through her participation, Noury illuminated the beauty of cultural exchange—where artistic visions transcend borders, blending tradition with innovation in a harmony of color and form.
“Through color and form, I weave the soul of Albania—the strength of its history, the poetry of its landscapes, and the enduring spirit of its people. My diptych ‘Colours of Albania,’ the solo piece ‘Mediterranean Landscape,’ and delicate calligraphies on canvas bring forth a dialogue between tradition and artistic vision. The Gjirokastra Castle, standing tall in my brushstrokes, is more than an image—it is a symbol of heritage and resilience.” — Larissa Noury
Art connects hearts beyond borders, weaving a tapestry of unity and inspiration.
“I embrace you all with love. It was a very nice organization—congratulations to Project Manager Saimir Ahmeti! Hope to see you again,” shares artist Zühre Özkaraman Mavi Fırça from Cyprus.
“It was nice to meet you all, hope to see you again,’ reflects Musa Güney from Istanbul and Dario Tironi from Bergame, Italy—voices echoing the shared spirit of artistic connection.
In this gathering of visionaries, bonds were woven that transcend time and distance, carrying the essence of inspiration forward.
In the spirit of creativity and togetherness, this residency stands as a testament to the enduring power of artistic exchange.
Images: Dr. Larissa Noury & Lina Sami Ogaily
