About IKON
The Association for Culture IKON, founded on June 10, 1999, stands as a testament to its commitment to enriching and affirming Macedonian culture and heritage. As a non-governmental, non-profit organization operating in the Republic of North Macedonia, IKON goes beyond cultural affirmation, actively contributing to civil society.
IKON's multifaceted approach includes diverse cultural programs strategically designed to transcend barriers and promote inclusivity. These initiatives not only celebrate the artistic and historical aspects of Macedonian culture and heritage but also extend internationally through collaborations. By fostering partnerships with cultural organizations worldwide, IKON aims to create a global dialogue that enriches and expands the understanding of Macedonian heritage. These international collaborations contribute to the exchange of ideas, cultural diversity, and mutual appreciation, enhancing the global cultural landscape.
By embracing an inclusive vision, IKON strives to make cultural experiences accessible to all citizens, breaking divides grounded in factors such as religion, nationality, educational background, or social affiliation. This commitment extends beyond borders, emphasizing the importance of international cultural collaborations in building bridges, fostering unity, and promoting a more cohesive and harmonious global society. Through these collaborations, IKON actively engages individuals from various backgrounds, promoting the appreciation of Macedonian cultural and historical heritage on the international stage.
Our mission
We're on a mission to transform the perception surrounding the significance of culture. Our goal is to reshape how individuals, communities, and societies perceive and value the role of culture in our lives. We firmly believe that culture is not merely an aesthetic luxury or a historical artefact; rather, it is a dynamic force that shapes identities, fosters understanding, and enriches the human experience.
Through our initiatives, we aim to highlight the profound impact that culture has on personal development, societal cohesion, and global interconnectedness. We strive to debunk the notion that culture is a niche interest, emphasizing instead its pervasive influence on every aspect of our daily lives. By changing the narrative, we seek to position culture at the forefront of discussions about progress, empathy, and a shared sense of belonging.
Through concerted efforts, we aspire to shift the narrative and bring about a collective realisation of the profound impact that culture has on our shared humanity. By changing perceptions, we believe we can contribute to a more inclusive, enlightened, and culturally enriched world for generations to come
Our vision is to create a world where the intrinsic value of culture is universally recognised and celebrated. We envision a global society that understands culture not only as a source of artistic expression but as a fundamental force shaping our identities, fostering empathy, and promoting interconnectedness.
In this world, diverse cultural expressions are not merely tolerated but embraced, and cultural heritage is regarded as a shared human treasure. We imagine communities that take pride in their unique cultural identities while actively engaging with and respecting the cultural structures of others.
Through our endeavours, we seek to inspire individuals to actively participate in the co-creation of this vision, fostering a collective commitment to preserving, evolving, and celebrating the cultural heritage that binds us all together. Our ultimate vision is a world where the transformative power of culture serves as a guiding force, promoting understanding, unity, and a shared sense of purpose among humanity.
Our vision
Exhibition "100 Years of the Birth of Denis Bowen" at the National Gallery of Macedonia (2021)