Announcing Winners of the BE OPEN Regional Art Competition for Oceania

BE OPEN Art Competition: Celebrating Cultural Identity in Oceania

In a significant recognition of artistic talent and cultural narratives, BE OPEN Art has announced the winners of its regional art competition for Oceania. A non-profit online gallery, BE OPEN Art was established by the humanitarian think tank BE OPEN, founded by Elena Baturina, to support and promote emerging artists. The competition aimed to provide a platform for artists whose work distinctly represents their regional, cultural, and ethnic identities.

Highlighting Emerging Artists

The recent competition covered a diverse region that includes Australia, New Zealand, and various Pacific island nations such as Fiji, Samoa, and the Solomon Islands. Over three months, 20 promising artists from the participating countries showcased their artworks in the online gallery, where the public could vote for their favorites. This initiative serves not only to elevate these artists but also to highlight the rich cultural tapestry that each of these regions contributes to the global art scene.

Recognizing the Best: Awards and Achievements

After an intense voting process engaging the public and the BE OPEN artistic community, the prominent award was granted to Huriana Kopeke-Te Aho. She is a self-taught artist and illustrator whose work deeply resonates with her Māori heritage. Huriana’s art explores themes of cultural legacy and identity, striving to reconstruct and decolonize traditional artistic expressions while celebrating Māori and Pacific traditions. Alongside this honor, she received a scholarship valued at 500 euros.

In addition to the main award, Tania Calvo, an emerging artist from Vanuatu, received a personal selection award from BE OPEN founder, Elena Baturina. Tania’s artworks are profoundly influenced by her diverse ethnic background and her connection to Vanuatu’s rich artistic heritage. Her philosophy, encapsulated in the mantra "Always be yourself," imbues her creations with a unique authenticity and vibrant spirit.

Gratitude to Oceanic Art Society

BE OPEN extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Oceanic Art Society for their unwavering support of Oceanic artists. Their collaboration fosters an environment where emerging talents can express themselves freely and gain the recognition they deserve.

A Vision for the Future

BE OPEN Art aspires to nurture emerging talents by selecting artists who prioritize social consciousness and aim to address contemporary global issues through their aesthetics. The project welcomes contributions from all, investing in new influencers within the art scene. By focusing on cultural and social narratives, BE OPEN Art continues its mission to elevate and empower diverse artistic voices, encouraging a future where art reflects and responds to the complexities of our world.

In conclusion, the BE OPEN Regional Art competition not only brings together the artistic talents of Oceania but also serves as a reminder of the vital role that art plays in cultural expression and identity. As these artists continue to emerge and flourish, their stories and artworks will undoubtedly shape the artistic landscape for years to come.

For more updates and to view the artworks, visit the official BE OPEN Art online gallery.