Artists Explain Healing and Unifying Power of Art and Music
- Mar 26
- 2 min read
IAACP, United States – The International Association of Arts and Culture for Peace (IAACP) held a webinar on March 26, 2026, featuring four panelists presenting on the power of art and music to create peace and foster healing.
The program was hosted and moderated by Mr. David Eaton, global coordinator for IAACP, who introduced UPF’s message about art as a vehicle for unity and peace. He quoted the famous composer and conductor, Mr. Leonard Bernstein, regarding art's power to change people, which is in accord with UPF founders’ vision of art and culture. He shared a video of a concert he conducted in Taiwan with Israeli singer Mr. David D’Or, performing the inspirational song, “One Family.” (See link below.)
Artist and educator Ms. Carol Pobanz presented a report on the healing power of participatory art, sharing examples of community-based projects including the One America Peace Park in Honduras and a Unity Sculpture Project in Nutley, New Jersey. She emphasized how art brings people together across cultural and generational lines, creating shared experiences that foster understanding and unity.
Ms. Matogba Nelson was then introduced as coordinator of Hyo Jeong Culture and Arts for the northeastern United States. She shared her song “Thank You Mama,” written in appreciation of her mother and performed at the United Nations, and discussed her work in music and art. She described hosting music fundraisers, organizing songwriting workshops, and running monthly Healing Creative Nights that combine art and music in a faith-centered community. Ms. Nelson explained how music has helped her connect with people and bring hope to others, noting her role as music director coordinating singers and musicians for Sunday services.
Mr. Danno Petersen, a recently commissioned ambassador for peace from South Africa, shared a video of his composition “Vagabond,” performed at the Manhattan School of Music. Mr. Petersen, who is both a musician and a motivational speaker who received a Lifetime Achievement Award from President Barrack Obama, also shared his musical journey and an inspiring message about choosing good friends and following one's passion.
Mr. Darryl Franklin, cultural ministry director at the Elizabeth Family Church, shared his vision for using music to empower youth. He presented a report about the Peace Starts With Me choir project, which he developed over the past two years, including songwriting workshops that have resulted in 14 original songs. The choir has performed at numerous events, including the United Nations’ International Day of Peace concert in Teaneck, New Jersey, sponsored by the Peace Island Institute. The choir recently released an album of original songs.
The webinar concluded with discussions about continuing to support artists in building a culture of peace through community programs and musical initiatives, along with plans to continue similar webinars and connect with artists in other communities.
(Listen to “One Family” sung by Mr. David D’Or, accompanied by the Evergreen Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Mr. David Eaton.)
