A plain white flag is the international symbol of surrender or truce. The flag
indicates peace and is usually flown or waved in times of war. However, in
the battle to gain votes in the People's Choice Award for the World of
Wearable Arts one participant is using every bit of arsenal available by using
the internet, social networking sites and the "feel good factor" to garner
votes for his entry.
White Flags is Kris Ericksen's entry to the World of Wearable Art's
Illumination Section. It consists of 24 white flags made from ripped cotton
that hang off a frame constructed of black plastic pipe.
If he wins the People's Choice the artist has pledged to donate the prize
money to UNICEF New Zealand's Solomon Islands Project. This project is for the refurbishing of 44 sub-standard schools
in the Solomon's, and any
donations (up to $500 000) are being matched by Gareth and Jo Morgan.
The Solomon's Islands is a region which has seen its fair share of civil conflict and education is one of the key ways
to help children recover, and to ensure the younger generation have the skills and resources necessary to prevent future
conflict.
For more information go to http://www.unicef.org.nz, http://www.whiteflags.homestead.com or
http://www.facebook.com and search for White Flags
(Direct link to UNICEF article:
ENDS