In an exciting new fund-raising project, artist Graham Bannister has
created a human rights painting, the proceeds of which will go to the HRI to
help fund future projects.
The work shows hands pulling together on ropes to untie the problems of
the world. These are the problems where the rule of law, natural justice
and fundamental human rights cease to exist as a result of political, economic,
social or military pressures. The hands represent human effort and energy
exerted in unison. On each pillar are the words Justice Peace and Truth written
in the six official languages of the United Nations. Global voices from all
corners of the world are represented in the picture, as they are in the
membership of the IBA. We believe that this painting reflects the IBA and
presents a positive but realistic depiction of the global human rights
situation.
The significance and meaning
of the work is directly related to the aims and ideals of the International Bar
Association's Human Rights Institute.
These are,
1.The promotion, protection
and enforcement of human rights under a just rule of law.
2. The promotion and
protection of the independence of the judiciary and the legal profession
worldwide.
3. The worldwide adoption
and implementation of standards and instruments regarding human rights,
accepted and enacted by the community at large.
4.The acquisition and
dissemination of information concerning issues relating to human rights,
judicial independence and the rule of law.
The work shows hands pulling
together on ropes to untie the problems of the world. These are the
problems where the rule of law, natural justice and fundamental human rights
cease to exist as a result of political, economic, social or military
pressures. The hands represent human effort and energy exerted in
unison. The hands are a mixture of nationalities, of men, women and
children.
Ropes are made of many
individual fibers and strands. When entwined they increase in
strength. The ropes also symbolise restrictions and shackles. Untie
the knots and freedom results. Ropes are strong, flexible and have many
good uses. They can, however, be abused.
The work shows these ideas
are global but even our world is set in the large universe of space.
Contrast this with the individual human endeavours represented by each
individual hand.
All these symbols are set
against the three pillars. These support the three key principles.
On each pillar are the words Justice, Peace and Truth written in the six
official languages of the United Nations. The three pillars are connected
to and support the universe in which the world revolves. Behind the
pillars is an expanse of sky depicting freedom and space. The sunlight, fresh
air and water bearing clouds are essentials for life itself.
