ABOUT ARTS OF UNDERSTANDING

Arts of understanding are creative expressions that originate from awareness and compassion. They have the potential to heal our suffering and to transform our communities. They may manifest in any form, color or style. They are always alive and immediate.

In the modern world, despite extraordinary technological advances in the area of communication, we find ourselves more disconnected and isolated than ever. The arts of understanding transcend divisions and prejudices. They reconnect us with ourselves and with each other. Therefore the arts of understanding are a vital component in cultivating harmony, well-being, and global societies of peace.

Arts of Understanding is dedicated to preserving, nurturing, and celebrating these dynamic living traditions, old and new, around the world.

Arts of Understanding serves the global community by:

• providing unprecedented access to diverse works of arts of understanding through exhibitions and events both online and locally.

• ensuring the vitality of the arts of understanding for future generations. AOU supports artists and mentoring programs with particular emphasis on ‘endangered’ as well as ‘emerging’ traditions arts of understanding.

• providing access to educational information and resources about the arts of understanding.

Arts of Understanding is a program of World Listening, an organization dedicated to helping all peoples of the world to become peacemakers by developing and engaging our capacities to listen openly and without bias. Arts of Understanding is sponsored by Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization.