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Vienna, Austria — 25 September 2024 — The International Cultural Diversity Organization (ICDO) opened its much-anticipated art exhibition at the Yunus Emre Institute (Yunus Emre Enstitüsü – Türkisches Kulturzentrum Wien) on 25 September 2024, as part of the 7th edition of the “Long Nights of Interculturality.” The “Cultural Diversity & Inclusivity” Art Exhibition, which runs until 29 September, highlights the unifying power of art in fostering intercultural understanding.
The event featured powerful opening remarks from Josipa Palac, CEO of ICDO, and Ayse Yorulmaz, Director of Yunus Emre Institute, who both underscored the role of art in promoting peace, inclusivity, and global dialogue.
In her opening remarks, Josipa Palac spoke passionately about the importance of cultural exchange through the arts. “Art is not just a form of expression; it is a language that transcends borders, offering a common ground for people from diverse backgrounds. This exhibition is a testament to the power of creativity to build bridges and celebrate our shared humanity.” She further acknowledged the ongoing partnerships that have fuelled the success of this year’s Long Nights of Interculturality, bringing the artistic showcase to life.
Ayse Yorulmaz emphasized the Institute’s commitment to fostering intercultural dialogue, stating, “As a cultural hub in Vienna, the Yunus Emre Institute is proud to collaborate with ICDO in this initiative. Art has always played a pivotal role in breaking down barriers and enhancing our understanding of each other, and this exhibition beautifully captures that spirit of unity.” Ms Yorulmaz also highlighted the Institute’s longstanding partnership with ICDO in hosting the annual “Intercultural Long Night” exhibitions. Ms Yorulmaz further stated, “We are proud to display the works of more than 20 distinguished artists from around the world and to provide a platform for emerging talent and art lovers alike.”
The exhibition forms a key part of ICDO’s Long Nights of Interculturality, an annual celebration now in its seventh year, which is a celebration of diversity, inclusion, and shared humanity. This festival has grown into a prominent platform in Vienna for cultural exchange, bringing together artists, performers, and thought leaders from around the globe. ICDO’s longstanding partnerships with organizations and other collaborators highlight the multicultural essence of the event.
The artwork on display spans a variety of mediums, from paintings and sculptures to digital installations, all of which reflect the vibrant cultures of different communities. The curatorial direction led by Josipa Palac offers a vivid exploration of themes such as migration, identity, and resilience, making the exhibition visually engaging and deeply thought-provoking.
This year’s Long Nights of Interculturality also includes live performances, panel discussions, and workshops designed to engage the wider public and encourage active participation in intercultural dialogue. From the Filipino community in Austria, organizations such as the European Network of Filipino Diaspora Austria (ENFiD-Austria) led by Maria Zelda “Marizel” Rojas, the Folklorico Filipino Austria led by Ana Maria “Minnie” Langer and Vienna International Centre Group of Polynesian Friends (VIC GPF, now Polynesian & Cultural Dance Synergy), led by Miriam de la Cruz.
About ICDO
The International Cultural Diversity Organization (ICDO) is a Vienna-based NGO committed to promoting peace and unity through cultural diversity. Founded seven years ago, ICDO has spearheaded numerous initiatives that bring together artists, community leaders, and policymakers to foster intercultural dialogue and understanding. Its flagship event, Long Nights of Interculturality, continues to thrive as a key cultural event in Austria, celebrating partnerships with diverse organizations across Europe and beyond.
In the last 7 years, the International Cultural Diversity Organization (ICDO) has:
- funded and coordinated humanitarian emergency reliefs in Croatia, Mexico, and Europe;
- helped promote and protect nearly 50 Indigenous communities globally,
- established two (2) “ICDO Development Hubs”;
- educated more than 1000 children;
- implemented more than 50 workshops;
- worked towards reintroducing more than 1,000,000 bees (Melipona Beechei) into their natural habitat;
- worked with more than 500 visual and performing artists;
- established cooperations and partnerships with communities, businesses, and governments;
- cooperated with more than 45 embassies;
- established cooperations with more than 12 universities worldwide.
For more information on the art exhibition and other events within the Long Nights of Interculturality, please visit https://www.icdo.at/
Photos by Charito Calixto Leidenfrost
About the Author
Maria Zelda “Marizel” Rojas, President of Bikol Society Austria (BSA) from 2016 to 2024, is a dedicated leader and ardent devotee of Our Lady of Peñafrancia. Her commitment to the Filipino and international communities extends across multiple organizations, serving as Chairperson of the European Network of Filipino Diaspora-Austria (ENFiD-Austria), Board Member of the European Network of Filipino Diaspora (ENFiD), Founder and former president of the Philippine Austrian Cultural and Educational Society (PACES), Adviser and Former President of the Vienna International Centre Club Filipino (VIC CF), and Board Member of the United Nations Correspondents Association Vienna (UNCAV), and Councillor and Liaison for the Philippines of the European Police Association (EPA) and Auditor of the Vienna International Centre Gastronomy Club (VIC GC). She is a member of the Filipina Women’s Network (FWN) and received the Most Influential Filipina Women in the WorldTM (Global FWN100™) “Behind the Scenes” award in 2019.
pictures: Charito Calixto Leidenfrost
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