As the vibrant hues of early June begin to paint the Principality, the Mairie de Monaco extends a heartfelt invitation to its residents, beckoning them to embark on an introspective artistic journey in honour of World Environment Day. In a unique collaboration with JEMONDE, the Cour d’Honneur of the Town Hall will transform into a sanctuary of self-reflection and creative expression on Tuesday, June 3rd, from 1 pm to 4:30 pm.
Reflecting inward, connecting outward: Monaco’s artistic call for environmental awareness
More than just an artistic endeavor, this project, tenderly titled “Mairie de Monaco x JEMONDE: Portraits d’âmes” (Portraits of Souls), gently guides participants to delve into the depths of their inner landscape and contemplate their intricate connection with the world around them. The heart of this experience lies in responding to four thoughtfully crafted prompts – “I am,” “I live in a world,” “My commitment is,” and a personal motto – each a stepping stone towards unveiling the essence of one’s being and their place within the grand tapestry of life. These intimate reflections will then be embraced by artistry, metamorphosing into a personalized “portrait of the soul,” a tangible representation of inner thoughts and feelings that participants can carry home as a poignant reminder of their inner world.
The vision behind this immersive initiative belongs to Maud Louvrier Clerc, an artist whose passion lies in weaving together the threads of art and sustainable development. Her creation finds resonance within the esteemed Humanities Art & Society programme, a testament to its profound message and supported by the intellectual and cultural authority of UNESCO, the International Council for Philosophy and Human Sciences, and the forward-thinking initiative of Mémoire de l’Avenir.
By artfully intertwining the act of creation with the quiet contemplation of the self, the Mairie de Monaco aspires to cultivate a deeper environmental consciousness amongst its community. It’s an invitation to move beyond mere awareness and foster a profound sense of individual and collective responsibility for the delicate balance of our shared planet. Recognizing that not all can gather in person, the spirit of participation extends online, offering a digital canvas for reflections via the dedicated Mairie de Monaco x JEMONDE page, ensuring that every voice can contribute to this collective portrait of the soul.
World Environment Day 2025: A personal and collective journey towards a sustainable future
Led with unwavering dedication by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), World Environment Day has blossomed into the largest global platform for environmental public outreach since its inception on June 5th, 1973. Celebrated annually by millions across the globe, it has served as a vital catalyst for raising awareness on critical environmental issues since its first observance in 1974, shedding light on challenges ranging from the pervasive threat of marine pollution and the pressures of overpopulation to the urgent reality of global warming and the imperative of sustainable development.
This year, as World Environment Day 2025 approaches on June 5th, the global focus sharpens on the critical theme of “Combating Plastic Pollution.” The year’s program underscores the pressing and universal need to eradicate the scourge of plastic waste, a pervasive environmental ailment that casts a long shadow over ecosystems and human health in every corner of the world.
In this context, Monaco’s “Portrait of the Soul” initiative becomes even more meaningful, subtly reminding us that our personal connection to the environment is the very foundation upon which meaningful change can be built.
