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Arts Contribute to the Development of a Community or a Country

To mark the third edition of the “Ambassador’s Art in the Atrium” program, the United States Embassy in Abidjan launched a month-long exhibition on 17 May 2006 dubbed “Art for Unity”.  The Cooperative of Weavers from Tiébissou, which specializes in traditional Baoulé woven cloths that depicts prestige and dignity, sculptors from Zuénoula, and the Cooperative of Women Potters led by renowned potter Mama Coulibaly, took part.  More than fifty cloths coming from several villages, dozens of items ranging from salad bowls to papaya vases, and flowers, and masks were displayed.

In his opening address, Ambassador Hooks underlined “the necessity to reinforce unity among the Ivoirians.” According to him, “Arts are symbols of traditions as they create links between generations. They help people recall their past. But arts are also symbols of hope for future.” To conclude, Ambassador Hooks said: “Arts contribute to the development of a community and a country.” The artists present at the ceremony expressed their appreciation to the United States Embassy in Abidjan for offering them this “unique opportunity to display their items”.

The Ambassador’s Art in the Atrium program was launched last December by Ambassador Hooks in a bid to transform the embassy’s atrium into a cultural space and to strengthen the relationship between the United States and Côte d’Ivoire.