The American ambassador in Beirut, Dorothy Shia, confirmed, in a comment on the "Meet the Artist" initiative launched by the American embassy at the beginning of 2022, that "art and culture are lifelines, not luxuries." She explained that "the ongoing project began as a proposal from the cultural team at the embassy: what if we gathered emerging artists here with a leading Lebanese artist in their field, to discuss with him, listen to him, and share their concerns and questions?"
In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper, she revealed that she heard a common concern from the artists: "What can we do for the Lebanese artistic community during these difficult times to make a difference?" She pointed out that "the initiative succeeded in conveying inspiration and ambition to rising generations. It has also contributed in its own way to alleviating the pressures on the Lebanese artistic community. The most important thing for me is the message embodied by those meetings."
Shia noted that "one of the things the United States excels at is bringing people together, and that is what happened in 'Meet the Artist'," stressing that "the budget for the cultural calendar dedicated to Lebanon, which amounts to one million dollars, is not spent randomly, but through initiatives that touch people's lives. Among those purposeful projects, there is cooperation with associations concerned with underprivileged children who are interested in music, offering lessons taught by American musicians."
She focused on the embassy’s activities in rehabilitating and restoring archaeological sites, including the Beiteddine Palace and the Mseilha Castle, as well as supporting associations aimed at reinforcing buildings in Beirut against earthquakes, asserting that "all this stems from Washington's interest in Lebanon, from the strategic perspective the American administration has towards the country, and its desire to help associations and municipalities preserve cultural heritage, from archaeological sites to traditions and arts."
She also highlighted that "as my departure from Lebanon approaches, I am certain how precious my time here is. This increases my enthusiasm and desire to explore more." When asked about her choice if she had to choose between meeting an artist and meeting a politician, she indicated that "in one-on-one sessions with politicians, I sense a desire to help Lebanon and its people, but something happens when they gather." She expressed her surprise at "this shift," wishing "that the harmony in meetings with artists would transfer to politicians."
Shia announced that she carries in her diplomatic bag "a historic achievement that she is proud to have witnessed its pivotal moments, which is the maritime border demarcation agreement between Lebanon and Israel."
