Brasília – In an attempt to consolidate the dialogue between political leaders from Arab and Western countries, putting an end to impasses and controversies, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) is going to award a prize, on April 13th, to artists under 35 years old who contribute to develop peace between West and East.
The shortlist comprises 20 artists from Europe, the United States, Egypt, Iraq, Morocco, Algeria, Israel and Lebanon. Winners will be granted the title of Young Artists for Intercultural Dialogue between the Arab and Western Worlds.
The artists are acknowledged for their work in music, dancing, theatre, literature, film and photography. The objective is to encourage similar initiatives. The award is one of the projects established by the Unesco and the Alliance of Civilizations with funding from the government of Spain.
The Unesco coordinators have already selected 10 out of the 20 artists shortlisted to receive the award. The Moroccan-born, Belgium-based Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui is a choreographer and dancer whose work straddles the two cultures. The French-based, Algerian-born Faiza Guen is a writer who picks themes that portray the reality of North Africans who live in the French suburbs, approaching the stereotypes and misjudgements.
The French photographer JR focuses on the lives of Israelis and Palestinians in conflict zones. Lebanese trumpet player Ibrahim Maalouf combines Western and Eastern rhythms to work with artists from different nationalities. Egyptian musician Massar Egbari promotes concerts featuring artists from several countries.
*Translated by Gabriel Pomerancblum
