Since 1955, the Medal awarded by the German Goethe-Institut recognizes those who stand out, weaving together the complex and significant parts of the rich tapestry of the global cultural scene. As the most prominent acknowledgment in Germany’s foreign cultural policy, this medal transcends borders, honoring those who have bridged gaps between different cultures, languages, and perspectives. Every year, three visionaries from around the world are celebrated for their exceptional contributions to international dialogue, enriching the global cultural landscape, and deepening our shared humanity.
The Goethe Medal is awarded on the anniversary of Goethe’s birth, carrying with it the spirit of this literary giant—a spirit that embraces the complexity of the human experience and the beauty of intercultural understanding. Goethe once remarked, “Culture is the art of living in harmony with oneself and others.” This sentiment captures the essence of the Goethe Medal, which is not just an award but a celebration of the profound impact that cultural workers, artists, thinkers, and creators have on the collective heritage of communities around the world.
The list of recipients spans all continents and each year connects three distinguished individuals whose work, whether rooted in the communities they come from or internationally intertwined, stands as a beacon that tirelessly reminds us of the ability of culture to weave threads of solidarity, mutual support, empathy, as well as courage, innovation, and adherence to the values Goethe followed, and after him, all recipients of this medal. Individuals like Daniel Barenboim, whose music transcends the boundaries of nationality; John le Carré, whose pen illuminated the shadows of international relations; Ágnes Heller, whose philosophical reflections bridged the gap between thought and action; and Shirin Neshat, whose art confronts and reconciles the contradictions of identity, are just a few whose work has been recognized with the Goethe Medal, each adding their unique voice to the symphony of global culture.
The Goethe Medal is more than a symbol; it is a reminder that through cultural cooperation and dialogue, we continue to build bridges across the divides of language, geography, and ideology—bridges that Goethe himself would have crossed with curiosity and boundless love for humanity.
This year, from the Balkan region, where history intertwines with the rhythm of contemporary struggles, Iskra Geshoska stands as a shining beacon of cultural transformation. She is the third representative from the Balkan countries to be honored with this international recognition. Her journey, marked by unwavering dedication to the independent cultural sector, is a testament to the power of art and activism in shaping social landscapes. Since 1994, Iskra Geshoska has been at the forefront of nurturing the independent cultural scene in Macedonia, breathing life into self-organized artistic formats that challenge conventional practices. As the founder and president of Kontrapunkt, her vision has redefined the role of culture in the socio-political sphere, advocating for critical thinking and boldly crossing/challenging the boundaries between art and politics. Throughout these years, and especially in the last nine, primarily within the framework of KRIK—the Festival for Critical Culture, where she is the chief editor and founder—Geshoska has actively created a space where art meets activism, where every performance and discussion is a call to engage with current societal issues.
Iskra Geshoska’s legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of Skopje’s cultural landscape through her work with the independent cultural center “Točka,” which she led from its founding until its closure. Under her leadership, Točka became a catalyst for innovative cultural practices in contemporary Macedonian society, exploring the relationship between art and politics, making “Točka” a crucial thread not only in the Macedonian cultural tapestry but also on the broader Balkan scene. Her role as the first president of JADRO, the national platform for the independent cultural scene, further underscores her influential presence in the realm of national cultural policy, while her contribution to the founding of the regional cultural platform KOOPERATIVA reflects her deep commitment to regional cooperation and networking. Geshoska’s written work includes around 100 essays and research papers, offering deep insights into critical theory, performing arts, and cultural policies.
Receiving the Goethe Medal this year, Iskra Geshoska’s recognition is not only a personal achievement but also a celebration of the transformative power of culture. For North Macedonia, a country often overshadowed on the global cultural stage, this award highlights the profound impact of its cultural innovators. Geshoska’s accomplishments serve as a beacon of hope, illustrating that even from the smallest parts of the world, deep and far-reaching international contributions can emerge. Her legacy is a reminder of the vital role culture plays in bridging divides and fostering a more inclusive and empathetic world. Her work is proof that through critical thinking, persistence, and empathy, we can build bridges of support, solidarity, and love, even in societies where it often seems that the shores are constantly drifting apart.
Споделено на: August 29, 2024 во 8:16 pm