Art
Bridging Nations: A Project with a Soul
Transforming Lives and Fostering Unity Through Art and Inclusion
How can art empower individuals and create a sense of unity across diverse communities?
Bridging Nations, founded by Madeleine ImKey, exemplifies the transformative power of art in uniting and empowering individuals, particularly those with special needs. Rooted in inclusivity and cultural exchange, Bridging Nations is on a journey to create meaningful connections and opportunities for artists and young talents with special needs.
Origins and Development
Inspired by her deep-rooted passion for art and commitment to inclusivity, Madeleine ImKey’s vision for Bridging Nations began in Paris. Awarded in October 2023 by the French Académie Arts-Sciences-Lettres founded in 1915 for her unique Earth Baroque art style, ImKey found herself declaring her intent to merge her artistic endeavours with a mission to foster unity and Inclusion, particularly in the Middle East.This vision gained momentum, culminating in an invitation to exhibit at COP28 in Dubai last year. From there she was invited for a dinner hosted in Oman to celebrate her nomination by the French Academy as delegate for the GCC countries. She connected with artists and Influential figures, including members of the Omani royal family, solidifying her commitment to this cause.
The transition from vision to reality was marked by significant milestones. Within a year, Bridging Nations evolved from a conceptual framework to a tangible initiative, with its first major event held in Oman in May. This event brought together 17 local artists and 17 young individuals with disabilities for a full week and a three-day workshop, each pair working towards creating artwork aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Dr. Kamil Fahad Al Said played a major role in the event, personally selecting all the participating artists with a student and one SDG in a meticulous process aimed at fostering inclusivity and creativity.
Personal Connection and Motivation
ImKey’s commitment is deeply personal and is nourished by her utopic believe of co-creating this
world into better one. Her sister, who has a disability, has been a significant influence and hero in her life, instilling in her a profound respect and admiration for individuals with special needs. “For me, disabled people are my absolute favourite people. I love them. They have the true connection to the unseen world,” says Imkey. Her love for the arts began at a young age, influenced by her studies with monks in the oldest Swiss Baroque monastery. This unique education not only honed her artistic skills but also instilled a sense of spiritual and cultural appreciation, which she now channels into her work with Bridging Nations.
Académie des Arts, Lettres et Sciences and Fernand Girard
Central to Bridging Nations’ journey was the pivotal support from French Académie in Paris, under the leadership of Fernand Girard, Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur. Their endorsement marked a significant milestone as ASL stepped out of France for the first time in 109 years. Fernand Girard’s visionary leadership and recognition of the project’s impact lent credibility and visibility to Bridging Nations, propelling it onto the global stage.
Inclusivity and Challenges
Bridging Nations faced the unique challenge and honor at the same time of integrating artists and students with various disabilities, including blindness, hearing impairments, autism, and those who were orphans. The project’s success hinged on fostering connections and understanding across these diverse groups, facilitated by dedicated volunteers and Imkey’s own husband, who played a pivotal role in supporting the initiative.
“Now the biggest challenge is keeping the troops, meaning her students, motivated. She will see them in Paris on October 6th for the special day with the presentation of diplomas and medals and during the next edition of Bridging Nations planned 2025,” emphasizes ImKey.
Core Values and Philosophy
Unity, diversity, and empowerment are the pillars of Bridging Nations. Unity is reflected in the collaboration between artists and students from diverse backgrounds. Diversity is embraced through the inclusion of various nationalities, religions, and abilities. Empowerment is achieved by providing a platform for these individuals to showcase their talents and cultural heritage, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment. These values manifest in every aspect of Bridging Nations’ activities, from participant selection to workshop execution and exhibitions, ensuring an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
“The essence of Bridging Nations is to bring light to students and artists together. It has to continue being pure, coming from the soul, and be at service for a higher good,” ImKey emphasizes.
Reception and Impact
The reception in Oman has been overwhelmingly positive. The inaugural event, attended by over 100 guests, including notable figures from the royal family, showcased the profound impact of the initiative. The joy and gratitude expressed by the participants and their families underscored the success of the project. One touching story involved an artist initially hesitant to work with individuals with special needs. By the end of the workshop, she expressed immense gratitude for the experience, highlighting the rich exchange of ideas and the joy of creating art together. This transformation is a testament to the project’s ability to break down barriers and foster mutual understanding and respect.
“The joy of the students was incredible. Seeing their smiles and receiving their gratitude messages made everything worthwhile,” recalls ImKey.
Challenges and Adaptations
Adapting to different cultural contexts involves close collaboration with local communities and understanding their unique needs and values. For instance, in Oman, the project emphasized local heritage and involved significant input from Omani artists and community leaders. This approach ensures that each initiative is culturally relevant and resonates with the participants.
Future Aspirations and Expansion
Imkey envisions expanding Bridging Nations to other regions, starting with the Gulf countries. Future plans include creating bilateral exchanges between Oman and countries like Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Ensuring the project’s sustainability through financial support, government backing, and continuous community engagement is crucial for its growth.
“Oman will be the beginning of the project. I want to create bilateral exchanges with Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and other Gulf countries. It’s important to move forward with proper support,” Imkey explains.
Sustainable Development Goals
Bridging Nations actively contributes to advancing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By integrating these goals into its initiatives and outreach endeavors, the project tackles areas such as poverty alleviation, education, healthcare access, environmental conservation, and gender equality. Art exhibition projects are designed to raise awareness and inspire action towards achieving these goals. For instance, each artwork created during the workshops represents one of the SDGs, facilitating a visual and emotional connection to these global objectives.
“Creating awareness of the SDGs through art helps facilitate the message and inspires action,” says ImKey.
The Essence of Bridging Nations
At its core, Bridging Nations is about unity, peace, and service to a higher good. The initiative’s soul lies in its ability to bring together artists and students from different backgrounds, fostering a sense of togetherness and mutual respect and unity as an example for the world. The project’s success is driven by the dedication of volunteers, community support, and a red belief in the power of art to transform lives.
“To create such a project, one has to be strong and not give up. Maybe the path will change, but the project will continue,” ImKey asserts. She is on a mission to serve the humanity through culture and art. Her sister remains her greatest hero, inspiring her with a love for life and resilience despite challenges. This personal connection fuels Imkey’s unwavering commitment to Bridging Nations, ensuring it remains a beacon of hope and empowerment for individuals with special needs.
As Bridging Nations grows, it has the potential to foster unity across cultures. In a world often divided, this initiative shows how art can connect communities, unite people, and shape a more inclusive future.
About Madeleine ImKey
Madeleine is a visionary Swiss artist and the founder of Bridging Nations, a movement dedicated to fostering global unity, inclusivity, and peace through the transformative power of culture and art in its different forms. As a delegate of the Academy of Arts-Sciences-Lettres in Paris, she continues to inspire with her passion and purpose. In 2023, she was honoured in Paris for her exceptional contributions to the world of art, a testament to her unwavering commitment to creating a more harmonious world.
BRIDGING NATIONS IN THE PRESS
