UNESCO-Sharjah Prize for Arab Culture
About the Prize
Established in 1998, the UNESCO-Sharjah Prize for Arab Culture rewards, each year, two laureates – individuals, groups or institutions – who, through their work and outstanding achievements, endeavour to disseminate greater knowledge of Arab art and culture.
Applicants to the UNESCO-Sharjah Prize for Arab culture must have contributed significantly towards the development, dissemination and the promotion of Arab culture in the world. The winners are chosen by the Director-General of UNESCO, on the recommendation of an international Jury of experts in the field of Arab Culture and having distinguished themselves, over several years, by meritorious actions. Thus, the winners contribute to the promotion of cultural dialogue and the revitalization of Arab culture.
Alidji Alvin Touré
Alidji Alvin Touré, a filmmaker from Mali, is applying for the 20th edition of the UNESCO Sharjah Prize, marking the first participation of a Malian in this prestigious event.
Born and raised in Timbuktu, Alidji Alvin Touré has been steeped in the cultural richness and historical heritage of his hometown since his youth. His captivating and socially engaged cinematic work has garnered interest both locally and internationally.
From a young age, Alidji was fascinated by the power of cinema to capture and convey stories. In 2015, he embarked on self-learning filmmaking techniques, eager to share the unique stories and perspectives of his community with the world. His cinematic journey began with documentary projects highlighting Timbuktu's Arab cultural heritage, including its magnificent mosques and the history of architect Abou Ishaq es-Saheli. His early works were praised for their artistic sensitivity and ability to capture the essence of the city and its culture.
In 2021, Alidji reached a significant milestone by founding the International Film Festival of Timbuktu, an innovative platform for local and international filmmakers to share their films and promote intercultural dialogue. This festival has become a landmark event in the Sahel's cinematic landscape, attracting emerging talent from around the world and strengthening bonds between different communities in Timbuktu.
Alongside his cinematic achievements, Alidji is a fervent advocate for intercommunity dialogue and social cohesion in Timbuktu. His festival, "Les Ecrans de Tombouctou," plays a crucial role in promoting mutual understanding between Arab and Songhai communities, thereby contributing to preserving cultural diversity and enhancing social ties in the region.
As his cinematic journey continues to flourish, Alidji remains committed to showcasing the cultural richness of Timbuktu and the region, affirming the importance of cinema as a tool for preserving and celebrating African cultural heritage.
Aya Tarek
Aya Tarek is an internationally renowned Egyptian artist, born on November 14, 1989, in Alexandria. A painter and multidisciplinary artist, she boasts a diverse portfolio of art projects, feature films, and collaborations that have garnered acclaim in major cities such as São Paulo and Frankfurt.
From a young age, Aya Tarek developed a passion for drawing and painting. She studied fine arts at Alexandria University, where she honed her skills and explored various forms of visual expression. Her work took a significant turn in the early 2010s during the revolutionary uprising in Egypt. Using street art as a powerful means of communication and resistance, she created works that reflected the hopes, fears, and aspirations of the Egyptian people, establishing herself as an iconic figure in street art. Experimentation is at the forefront of Tarek's current artistic endeavors.
She explores innovative mediums such as virtual reality and new forms of studio painting, revisiting her classical training roots and pushing herself in unexplored directions. Beyond her visual work, Aya Tarek is an active cultural activist, participating in numerous art projects and collaborations worldwide, sharing her experience and expertise with other artists and communities.
Throughout her career, Aya Tarek has continually pushed the boundaries of urban art, exploring new styles and techniques while remaining true to her message of freedom and justice. Her work continues to inspire and provoke thought, solidifying her place among the most influential artists of her generation.
In an era of globalization and profound political and social changes facing the world, this Prize fully meets the values of mutual understanding that is cited in the Constitution of the Organization. By rewarding careers, lives, whose efforts have been to promote a culture to which they own so much, the UNESCO-Sharjah Prize for Arab culture strives to foster a better understanding of other civilizations, thus promoting, or encouraging international exchange. Arab arts and culture have left traces all over the world, not only has the mosaic of cultures in the Arab region benefitted mutually but also cultures far beyond. One cannot find a better tread for cultivating peace.
Contact
Shama Chokkam-Sunderraj
Focal Point UNESCO-Sharjah Prize
Social and Human Sciences Sector - UNESCO
7 Place de Fontenoy. 75007 Paris, FRANCE
s.chokkam-sunderraj@unesco.org / prix.sharjah@unesco.org