Studios destroyed, traditions saved: Artists fight to save Sudan’s culture

Port Sudan, Sudan – Awad Haroun, 45, a visual artist and theatre director, fled his home in Al-Halfaya, Khartoum North, after war destroyed a life he had worked hard to build in the capital.He moved to Port Sudan with his wife and son, leaving behind his home, artistic workspace and the tools he needed to work, shortly after fighting erupted between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary in April 2023.Recommended Stories list of 3 itemslist 1 of 3Port Sudan families can barely afford water as shortages persistlist 2 of 3Ebola death toll in DR Congo passes 5,000list 3 of 3RSF senior commander defects, accusing Sudan group’s leadership of nepotismend of listWhen he fled, he carried little: Two shirts, two pairs of trousers, two books and a few torn drawing papers, expecting to return soon. Instead, he has been forced to rebuild his life far from home.He lost not only his home but also the tools and materials he relied on to work and make a living.In Port Sudan, he looked to use his skills in sculpture, design and decoration for some money. He has since participated in theatrical performances at Wasel Festival, organised by Ahalina Cultural Group i...