Exiled lives on the stage: Support networks and programs for artists at risk from Turkey in Germany

This article analyses the support and self-care strategies of artists from Turkey who have left their country considerable risk regarding country’s political economic instability since 2013 relocated to Germany. It maps networks, programs institutions as well consider questions sustainability (self-) assessment. The study is based on interviews with Turkish Kurdish in Germany an analysis activities by Maxim Gorki Theater, Apartment Projekt, bi’bak, Hafiza Merkezi Berlin, systems like artistic research fellowships, art residencies, artist networks supportive theatres. guiding this examine longer-term orientation at risk. findings show three deficiencies. Despite variety available systems, experience difficulties integrating labour market. output-oriented, meritocratic basis which select candidates often fail help a holistic way. intergenerational disparity migrant communities create infrastructures, solidarity discourses for newly arriving artists, but also creates ideological tensions limits inter-communitarian solidarity. Specific self-organized extend other affected regions, chances Turkey. There are generational disadvantages newcomers overburdened, professionalized independent scene that has struggled break free social work socio-cultural stigmas. latter masks non-German background positive discrimination initiatives. proposes improvement through coordinated effort, encourages relieve need identity representation expectation or requirement, advises shift output towards enhancement individuals self-care, greater autonomy self-development practices new life.