Iraqi-British Architect Named UN Artist for Peace

Award-Winning Iraqi-British Architect Named UN Artist for Peace

New York, Jun 21 2010 11:10AM Iraqi-born British architect Zaha Hadid has been named to the roster of artists who use their influence and prestige to promote the ideals of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

Ms. Hadad, a winner of the prestigious Pritzker Prize, often referred to as “architecture’s Nobel,” will receive her official designation as a UNESCO Artist for Peace at a ceremony at the agency’s Paris headquarters on Thursday.

She is being recognized for her efforts to “raise public awareness of intercultural dialogue, to promote excellence in design and creativity, and her dedication to the ideals and aims of the Organization,” according to a news release issued by UNESCO. Born in Baghdad in 1950, Ms. Hadid graduated in mathematics from the American University of Beirut before enrolling at the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London (UK). In addition to buildings, she has also designed clothes, furniture and even a three-wheeled automobile called ZCar.

Among the other eminent personalities that comprise UNESCO’s Artists for Peace are Haitian author Frankétienne, the award-winning Philippine Madrigal Singers, Cameroonian musician Manu Dibango, Bangladeshi fashion designer Bibi Russell, and Brazilian musician Gilberto Gil.

ENDS