Paul Nataraj and Charmaine de Heij in residence at Pro Progressione

In January – February 2025, Pro Progressione in Budapest hosted artists Paul Nataraj and Charmaine de Heij.
Paul Nataraj’s artistic practice explores the intersections of sound, materiality, memory, diaspora, and identity. During the residency, Paul conducted fieldwork in Budapest, collecting personal narratives to inform his sound-based artwork. His methodology emphasizes collaborative storytelling and immersive listening experiences. Paul participated in the weekly Walk and Talk series organized by the MIRA House community, where he engaged with residents to build connections and contribute to intercultural dialogue.

Charmaine de Heij’s practice investigates colonialism’s influence on beauty standards for women of colour and non-binary individuals. Drawing from both historical research and contemporary conversations, she developed a series of workshops aimed at exploring self-image, identity, and healing through art. De Heij’s residency focused on empowering participants to challenge stereotypes and redefine self-representation through creative expression. Her workshop engaged women of colour, offering a safe and supportive environment for collective storytelling, artistic expression, and self-empowerment.

The residency concluded with a public event at Auróra, a multifunctional community space associated with the residency, where the artists shared the outcomes of their time in residence, sharing work-in-progress, insights, and reflections. The evening ended with a roundtable conversation.