Written by Maria Zelda and photos by Hedi Bousnina
Vienna, Austria, 29 August 2024 – The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) proudly marks the International Day Against Nuclear Tests with a unique and thought-provoking art exhibition curated by the CTBTO Youth Group. The event, held at the CTBTO headquarters in Vienna, brings together young artists from around the world to express their perspectives on nuclear disarmament, peace, and global security.
This year’s theme, “Art for a Nuclear-Free World,” underscores the power of creative expression in raising awareness about the dangers of nuclear testing and the urgent need for global cooperation to achieve a world free of nuclear weapons. The exhibition features over 50 pieces of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, digital media, and mixed-media installations, each conveying a strong message of hope, resilience, and the importance of peace.
Keynote Address by CTBTO Executive Secretary, Dr. Robert Floyd
The event opened with a keynote address by Dr. Robert Floyd, Executive Secretary of the CTBTO, who emphasized the critical role of youth in advocating for a nuclear-free world. “The voices of our youth are more important than ever in the fight against nuclear testing,” said Dr. Floyd. “Through art, these young leaders are not only raising awareness but also inspiring action towards the universal ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT).” Other notable guests at the event include: the Permanent Representative of Embassy of Kazakhstan in Austria, Mukhtar Tileuberdi, and Rebecca Jovin, Chief of Office of UN Office for Disarmament Affairs Vienna who delivered inspiring messages during the occasion. The Afro-Asia Media Correspondents Association was represented by Mr Hedi Bousnani. https://aamca-world.org/
Highlights of the Exhibition
The art exhibition is the result of a year-long collaboration between the CTBTO Youth Group and young artists from various cultural and educational backgrounds. Some of the highlights include:
- “Echoes of the Past, Hopes for the Future,” a large-scale mural depicting the devastating effects of nuclear testing juxtaposed with a vision of a peaceful future.
- “Resonance,” an interactive digital installation that allows visitors to visualize the global impact of nuclear tests through real-time data projections.
- “Voices of the Unheard,” a sculpture series honoring the victims of nuclear tests, particularly indigenous communities who have suffered disproportionately from nuclear fallout.
Global Impact
The International Day Against Nuclear Tests is an annual event that seeks to educate and mobilize the global community against the dangers of nuclear testing. This year’s observance, through the lens of art, highlights the importance of cultural engagement in the broader discourse on nuclear disarmament.
The CTBTO Youth Group’s art exhibition will be open to the public from 29 August to 5 September 2024, at the CTBTO headquarters in Vienna. Virtual tours and online engagement activities will also be available, allowing a global audience to participate in this important initiative.
About CTBTO
The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) is an international organization established to promote the adoption of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). The CTBTO works to prevent nuclear explosions by monitoring the globe with a network of sensors and promoting the treaty’s universal ratification. https://www.ctbto.org/ #IDANT
About the Author
Maria Zelda “Marizel” Magistrado ROJAS is currently working in the CTBTO. She is a former Physics Teacher and an enthusiastic event organizer, active member of organizations such as:
European Network of Filipino Diaspora Austria (ENFiD-Austria), Chairperson
Bikol Society Austria (BSA), President
European Network of Filipino Diaspora (ENFiD), Board Member
United Nations Correspondents Association Vienne (UNCAV), Board Member
European Police Association (EPA), Counselor & Liaison Officer for the Philippines
Philippine Austrian Cultural and Educational Society (PACES), Founding Member and Former President
Vienna International Centre Club Filipino (VIC CF). Adviser and Former President
Vienna International Centre Gastronomy Club (VIC GC), Auditor
