American Ambassador David Hale inaugurated the 3ayune (my eyes) photography exhibit at Art Lounge in Beirut.
"We chose this name because the students, through the eye of the camera lens, give us a glimpse into their lives, their daily realities and their personal joys and struggles. In this exhibit, we view their world through their eyes. But we see more than that. We also see them," Hale said.
Speaking to a diverse audience that included NGO officials, Embassy representatives, and the young photographers themselves, Ambassador Hale highlighted the importance of art in bringing people together and emphasized the Embassy’s cultural programs.
The U.S. Embassy in Beirut partnered with the NGO Cives Mundi to bring together Lebanese host community youth and Syrian refugee youth in the Wadi Khaled region of Lebanon for photography workshops. The youth worked together in the classroom learning photography skills from trained photographers, then took the cameras out into their communities to capture photos of their lives. The exhibit at Art Lounge is an exhibition of 184 images taken by the youth attendees of the workshops showcasing their daily realities.
"These children are living in difficult situations. Some were forced to flee their homes in Syria, others are dealing with the newcomers and the challenges that arise when so many people arrive in such a short amount of time. Yet, their photographs highlight affection, togetherness and family - values that all of us here tonight no doubt share," the envoy stated. "Their work shows us that, despite troubled times, there is hope."
"Even if we wanted to forget, the photograph of the bullet casings reminds us that these young minds are shaped by today’s tragic events. And that we need to help keep Lebanon stable and find a political solution to end the conflict in Syria," Hale said, noting that the United States and the international community are working on both of those fronts.
"To assist both the refugees and host communities in Lebanon, the United States has provided nearly $600 million dollars," he pointed out.
The exhibit will run from November 7-21, 2014 from 12pm - 6pm at Art Lounge.
"The United States is committed to working with Lebanon and the international community to keep the country stable, safe and secure. And that includes working with young people to develop their talents and give them creative and positive outlets to express their thoughts and feelings," he affirmed.
Hale addressed young photographers by telling them "Thank you for letting us see the world through your eyes."
"I hope you have learned much about yourselves and your neighbors and realize that, whether Syrian or Lebanese, your dreams are similar and your talents are great," he concluded.
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