#Switzerland #Lugano #Elena Baturina #BE OPEN Art #Regional Artists

Supporting Emerging Artists in Northeastern Africa

BE OPEN Art, initiated by humanitarian entrepreneur Elena Baturina, is entering its fourth year with a remarkable commitment to uplift emerging artists from Northeastern Africa. Since its inception, this online gallery has been dedicated to giving visibility to artists whose work embodies their regional, cultural, and ethnic identities. This program, called BE OPEN Regional Art, is a regional competition aimed at showcasing artistic talents from various countries, including Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, Libya, Egypt, and Madagascar.

A Platform for New Voices

The unique model established by BE OPEN Art involves a meticulous selection process conducted by an expert community. Each month, twenty new artists are featured in the gallery, and the public votes to select the Artist of the Month. At the conclusion of each four-month period, a standout artist is awarded a significant grant and the title of Artist of the Region, reflecting the community's appreciation and support. The most voted artist not only benefits from public recognition but also receives a €500 grant for their artistic endeavors, while the Founder's favorite artist is granted an additional €300, highlighting the ongoing commitment to nurture new talent.

Elena Baturina articulates the core mission of this initiative: "The regional competitions help us support even more young people. We hope that these additional resources will assist them in their continued pursuit of a successful career in the arts." This funding aims to encourage the growth of these emerging artists, facilitating their participation in global discussions about art and culture.

Empowering Cultural Significance

The initiative is particularly designed to bolster the representation of Northeastern Africa in contemporary art. With a focus on social consciousness, the artists selected are expected to address pressing issues through their work, thus contributing to the broader dialogue within the global art scene. Each piece submitted for consideration is not just an artwork; it's a narrative steeped in the rich cultural heritage and contemporary realities of the region.

As the competition unfolds from January to April 2026, participants from Northeastern Africa are invited to showcase their creations, further elevating the region's artistic voice. By offering a platform that emphasizes local cultural identities, BE OPEN Art seeks to encourage a ripple effect—enabling artists to inspire others within their communities and beyond.

The Bigger Picture

BE OPEN is more than just an art gallery; it is a global initiative advocating for creativity and innovation as vital components in crafting solutions for future challenges. By fostering artistic expression and community engagement, BE OPEN Art enables artists to become influencers in the creative landscape, promoting not only their individual stories but also those of their regions.

Ultimately, through the BE OPEN Regional Art initiative, Northeastern Africa's emerging artists gain not only recognition but a solid foundation for their careers, encouraging the social and economic development of their communities. As this initiative continues to grow, it lays the groundwork for a brighter, culturally richer tomorrow for artists and their audiences alike.

Together, we can envision a world where art transcends borders and connects us all, championing the messages of hope, identity, and cultural pride from Northeastern Africa to the global stage.