We have been collaborating with Lumbardhi Foundation since 2016 on the transitioning of the cinema into a cultural venue and this year Europa Nostra has awarded the efforts to preserve this urban collective memory in the category of ‘Citizens Engagement and Awareness-raising’. For our practice, the process has been one of learning and experimenting, building solidarity and friendship. We have been priviliged to work with and be supported by CHWB Kosova and Dokufest among other institutions such as UNDP, EU and Swiss Development Cooperation. Below you can find an excerpt from the award announcement:

“This is an exemplary project for the entire region of the Western Balkans and has been supported by a diverse set of partners. These include the Ministry of Culture of Kosovo*, the Municipality of Prizren, the Foundation for Arts Initiatives and Swiss Development Cooperation, Goethe International Relief, the Heinrich Böll Foundation, the Raiffeisen Bank, the Prince Claus Fund and several other smaller partnerships. The European Union has also provided significant support and has pledged funding for future restoration work of the cinema.

The revival of the open-air cinema (Kino Bahce) was undertaken between 2019 and 2020. A detailed design for the full restoration of the cinema will begin to be implemented in the autumn of 2022. The strategic renovation was led by Aslihan Demirtas of Khora Office.”