chatter matter
In an increasingly divided world, it’s easy to forget the powerful role that art plays in bridging differences. While political narratives often dominate the global stage, it’s the creative forces, the storytellers, painters, musicians, and performers that continue to build the kind of human connection that policies and negotiations often fail to achieve. Art speaks across language, history, and culture. It reminds us of what we share, not just what sets us apart.
This spirit of connection was at the heart of the UNESCO Olymp’Arts 30th Anniversary Celebration, held at the UNESCO House in Paris. The event brought together cultural leaders and artists from across the globe to mark a movement that draws inspiration from the Eternal Olympics of Ancient Greece, not through athletic competition, but through artistic expression. Among the global delegates were two figures representing Pakistan: Tara Uzra Dawood, President of the Dawood Global Foundation, and renowned artist Jamal Shah. Together, they signed the Olymp’Arts Charter on behalf of the country.
Their participation marked an important moment, not just symbolically, but in the broader context of cultural diplomacy. With over 70 countries represented, the signing of the charter signals a collective intention to revive the ancient tradition of the Olymp’Arts and launch the first modern Art Olympiads in 2027.
Marc Verriere, President of the World Olymp’Arts Council (WOAC), expressed his appreciation, saying, “We are deeply honoured and happy to have Tara represent Pakistan and be with us in Paris for this special occasion.”
WOAC Communications Director Alexa Parr added, “We’re deeply honoured by our dear friend Tara from Pakistan gracing this historical occasion with her presence and signing the charter, to help us resurrect the antique tradition of the Olymp’Arts by 2027.”
The Olymp’Arts movement is rooted in Olympic values, peace, mutual respect, and human excellence, but with a focus on creativity. It celebrates art as a universal language that transcends borders, encouraging dialogue, empathy, and understanding between cultures. Whether through music, painting, performance, or digital media, the goal is to create a platform where diverse voices can be heard and celebrated on a global scale.
For Pakistan, being part of this revival is more than a ceremonial gesture. It positions the country as an active participant in global cultural dialogue, a space often dominated by narratives from the West. Tara’s involvement, alongside Jamal Shah’s, brought visibility to Pakistan’s creative contributions and underscored the potential of art to open new pathways for connection.
As the world looks ahead to the 2027 Art Olympiads, the signing of the charter in Paris serves as both a milestone and a starting point. In a time where division often makes more noise than unity, events like these offer a firm reminder: creativity still has the power to bring us together.
– You! desk