Peacepainting is delighted to highlight a significant milestone in our organization's journey—a notable meeting with the esteemed King and Queen of Norway during their recent tour in the North of Norway. As they visited our municipality of Bindal, we had the privilege of acquainting them with our work and mission. The acknowledgment of Peacepainting in His Majesty's speech, accompanied by his unwavering support, has had a profound impact on our organization.
A Royal Visit to Bindal
As the King and Queen embarked on their tour of the North of Norway, they arrived in our picturesque municipality of Bindal. Amidst the beautiful landscapes and warm community spirit, the royal couple's attention was drawn to Peacepainting—an organization deeply rooted in our community. It was an honor to present the essence of Peacepainting and its transformative impact on promoting peace, equality, and personal growth through art.
A Resounding Endorsement
During his speech, His Majesty the King highlighted the significance of Peacepainting's work and its impact on society. The genuine support and recognition from the royal couple serve as a testament to the importance of our mission and inspire us to continue this important work.
“…Here you have something truly beautiful: Peacepainting. This project, aimed at children in particular, focuses on strengthening equality among people across borders. Through painting and written expressions, children and young people articulate their desires for a better world – one filled with freedom, joy, and justice for all.
To me, it appears as a unique way to unite positive forces. I warmly wish you the best of luck in your continued endeavors. It all began in Bindal in 2007, and now 22 countries are involved.
The Queen and I would like to conclude by aligning ourselves with the poetic wish of a 15-year-old Tunisian girl, expressed through one of the artworks in Peacepainting:
"Let us illuminate injustice and create an exit door for it."
- King of Norway, Bindal, 2023
Presenting Peacepainting
During the visit, we had the opportunity to present Peacepainting’s vision and work for the King and Queen. Peacepainting's leader, Catrine, accompanied by four participating children, showcased the essence of Peacepainting by presenting their individual paintings, each carrying a message. As part of the presentation, the children raised their artworks while Catrine read aloud the accompanying texts they had composed. The event continued as they moved to the museum, where an array of Peacepainting paintings with their accompanying texts were displayed for the King and Queen to explore.
Aligning Visions for a Better Future
The King and Queen's endorsement of Peacepainting signifies a shared vision for a more inclusive and harmonious society. Their support affirms the crucial role art plays in fostering unity, understanding, and personal growth. With their backing, we are further supported in our work to empower individuals, uplift marginalized voices, and bridge societal divides. Together, we can create lasting change and contribute to a world where peace and equality prevail.
Inspiring Collaboration and Growth
The royal couple's visit has opened doors to potential collaborations and expanded our reach beyond the local community. Their endorsement brings increased visibility to our organization, amplifying our message and mission. We are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead as we work hand in hand with partners and supporters to create meaningful change through art. Together, we can foster a more compassionate, inclusive, and equitable society.
A Moment to Cherish
The encounter with the King and Queen of Norway in Bindal will forever hold a special place in our hearts. Their interest, support, and inclusion of Peacepainting in their visit serve as a testament to the transformative power of art and our shared commitment to a brighter future. We extend our deepest gratitude to the royal couple for their genuine support and for recognizing the importance of our work.