On Tuesday, February 4, 2025, the Gallery of the Museum of Literature and Performing Arts of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in collaboration with the Foundation of Local Democracy, inaugurated the "Let's Speak Out" exhibition. As part of the Design Studio I course led by Assistant Professor Dr. Emir Hambo, students from the IUS Visual Arts and Visual Communication Design program showcased 18 works and 2 installations.
This exhibition is a key element of the "Let's Speak Out – Our Silence is Their Boldness" campaign, aimed at raising awareness of sexual violence against women in BiH, breaking stigmas, and empowering victims. Over 40 artists from across Bosnia and Herzegovina contributed works that address the prevalence of violence, with a special focus on sexual violence against women.
The event was opened by Ms. Jasmina Mujezinović, Executive Director of the Foundation of Local Democracy, who stressed the urgent need to break the silence surrounding sexual violence. Jo Anne Bishop, representing UN Women in BiH, also highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Foundation for Local Democracy and the Safe Network in protecting and supporting victims of violence.
Special thanks were extended to the contributing artists, including the Association of Fine Artists of BiH and IUS students who demonstrated a deep understanding of this critical issue. The Foundation for Local Democracy awarded special prizes to VACD students Faris Rizvić, Ema Bakija, and Hana Hodžić for their outstanding works.
The "Let's Speak Out" exhibition is part of the "Empower – Strengthening the Response to Sexual Violence in BiH" project, implemented in collaboration with the Agency for Gender Equality of BiH and the Safe Network, with financial support from the UN Trust Fund.
