Traditional Arts and Technology for Peace Building in South Libya
In January 2025, Nana Maren, in partnership with the Municipality of Oubari, launched the “Arts for Peace” project as part of its commitment to promoting social cohesion and empowering youth. This innovative initiative brought together participants from diverse age groups and cultural backgrounds to explore and celebrate traditional arts while harnessing modern technology to foster peace and dialogue in the community.
Project Highlights
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Empowering Through Art:
Fifty participants, predominantly women, received professional training in three key artistic disciplines—crafts, drawing, and photography. Over the course of three intensive, full-day workshops, trainees honed their creative skills, resulting in more than 50 artworks that reflect their visions of peace and cultural identity. -
A Vibrant Cultural Festival:
The project culminated in a large cultural festival that brought together over 180 attendees, including local officials, artists, and community representatives. The festival featured an art exhibition showcasing more than 50 pieces created during the workshops, live traditional music and dance performances that celebrated the rich cultural heritage of the Tuareg and Tebu communities, and a marketplace where 23 local women presented and sold their handcrafted products. -
Creative Competitions and Recognition:
A competitive art contest engaged 50 participants across the three disciplines. The top three winners in crafts, drawing, and photography received prestigious awards, including valuable prizes and certificates of appreciation, reinforcing their commitment to using art as a medium for peace. -
Effective Digital Outreach:
An impactful digital campaign amplified the project’s reach, with nine promotional posts and three short documentary videos generating engagement from over 19,800 people. This online presence not only increased awareness of the project but also highlighted the powerful role of art in fostering community dialogue and peace.
Key Outcomes
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Artistic Growth:
Participants demonstrated remarkable improvements in their artistic skills, creating works that express their unique visions of peace and cultural heritage. The project nurtured creativity and provided a platform for self-expression. -
Social Cohesion:
By bringing together youth and community members through collaborative workshops and a festive cultural event, the project strengthened the bonds between different segments of Oubari’s society. The shared experience promoted mutual understanding and a sense of unity. -
Community Engagement:
The festival and digital outreach activities played a vital role in engaging the broader community, inspiring dialogue and showcasing the transformative impact of combining traditional arts with modern technology. -
Sustainable Impact:
To ensure lasting benefits, the project established dedicated WhatsApp groups for ongoing mentorship, skill sharing, and networking among participants, trainers, and organizers. This initiative continues to support local talent and encourages the growth of small-scale creative enterprises.