Ashur Etwebi

Ashur Etwebi is one of Libya’s leading writers; he has published nine books of poetry and a novel, many of which have been published in English. Etwebi has translated a wide range of international poetry into Arabic and has been a prominent figure in Libya’s literary scene after the fall of Muammar Gaddafi. He has co-organized cultural and literary festivals and conferences showcasing both Libyan and international poetry and music, including the Tripoli International Poetry Festival in 2012. Etwebi resides in Trondheim.

During his residency Etwebi took part in a poetry reading event alongside British poet James Byrne reading from their new works – both in Arabic and English – crossing continents and styles, reflecting a very special friendship through poetry. Ashur Etwebi and James Byrne started their collaboration during the Al-Sendian arts festival, Syria, in 2009. Since then, Etwebi and Byrne have collaborated on the translation of Etwebi’s poetry.