GOETHE-ZENTRUM NICOSIA
German Cultural Centre
PRESS RELEASE
GOGANESHAGO
Elephants for Peace
The inhabitants of this planet are at the centre of a socio-economic and environmental crisis which menaces the entire globe. It seems mankind has not yet found the tools to create stable and peaceful living conditions for its species. German artist and art historian Rose Marie Gnausch initiated a civic art and peace movement GOGANESHAGO which leads to a series of questions: What society do we want to build for our children? Will we create a home for a multicultural society where every creed and colour is welcome? Will we take upon us the hard work to create bridges across divides? By launching an appeal to artists and non-artists worldwide to express their wish for peace and harmonious co-existence Rose Marie Gnausch wants to give an answer. The symbol chosen for this wish is the elephant, standing for great wisdom, harmony and the strength to overcome obstacles in Indian mythology.
The response to this appeal has been overwhelming: Individuals and artists from all over the world have made their wish for peace on the planet and in Cyprus visible by creating art objects, paintings or sculptures, which will be exhibited in a joyful street exhibition in Ledra Street on Europe Day, 9 May 2009,on both sides of the divide. The Mayor of Nicosia, Mrs. Eleni Mavrou, will open the exhibition at 11.00 a.m. near the Checkpoint with a rich programme: Drummers of the bi-communal band DRUMINSPIRE will create the musical background, whereas poets Neshe Yashin and Ellie Paeonidou will recite poems. ARTOS Kids University will contribute a performance and a group of singers will perform peace songs. Balloons are to spread the message in the air.
Artists and non – artists, adults and children from Germany, Austria, Luxemburg, the USA, Canada, New Zealand, Korea, Poland, Great Britain, Italy and, above all, from Cyprus are taking part: Schools, kindergardens, clinics and churches are sending their works. It should be mentioned that the Catholic Church is organizing a workshop for this project in front of Trier Cathedral.( Trier was Emperor Constantine the Great’s first residence from where he christianized Europe.) The Ministry of Education and Culture of Luxemburg is sending Nicos Hienckes to participate, the Austrian Embassy is sponsoring the balloon and button initiative of Austrian artists. Greek and Turkish Cypriot artists and students are creating their symbol of strength and wisdom. The House of Europe under the direction of Mary Pyrgou made a beautiful 11m banner for the exhibition during a workshop with children and art students. Numerous members of EKATE are sending in their art works