AFP

Initiated by the Japan Institute and the Japanese Garden Portland.
With the theme, ‘The Other’ art students are invited to submit a proposal to create an artwork. The commission encourages two art students differing in social, economic, racial, ethnic, gender, sexual orientation, religious, or political identity to work together and explore ‘The Other’. The successful artworks will be exhibited and sold at the Peace Symposia in Cape Town and Johannesburg at the end of 2023. The accepted students will receive a commission fee, and the proceedings of the art sale, to be applied toward their art education tuition.

The concept of ‘The Other’ refers to someone different from ourselves, distinct from what is known, familiar, and sometimes even preferred, accepted, or perceived as conforming to a particular norm. ‘The Other’ can be found in various aspects of culture, identity, perspectives, and experiences.

The Art for Peace Commission Scholarship aims to motivate conversation, engagement, and collaboration. It encourages artists to produce thought-provoking pieces that challenge stereotypes while stimulating discussions about diversity, inclusion, and divides between different groups or ideas.

At PJG and JI, it is believed that engaging with diverse individuals through culture, art, and nature can enrich our lives. It fosters empathy, expands our horizons, and prompts self-knowledge by encouraging us to step outside our comfort zones and consider alternative viewpoints. This exchange can deepen our understanding of diverse human experiences and foster strong connections. By exploring the beauty and complexity of ‘The Other’ through art, we cultivate a sense of empathy and enhance our overall appreciation for the rich tapestry of human existence.