Durban-based Artists for Human Rights (AHR) received a major international award recently for its work in contributing to efforts to remove the stigma attached to HIV/AIDS. At a ceremony in Geneva, Switzerland, Jan Jordaan accepted the award on behalf of the AHR. The award was given in the category HIV/AIDS Media for one of AHR’s projects, the Break the Silence billboard campaign.

"We are hoping that the Medaille d'Excellence confirms to potential supporters of AHR efforts that artists can contribute creative solutions towards threats to society," says Jan Jordaan. "With the international recognition that the award brings, AHR hopes that greater involvement and funding support from abroad can be solicited."

For the billboard project, 31 community-based and professional artists contributed artworks. The majority of artists are from South Africa, with others selected from a network of well-accomplished international artists. The works are being transposed into large billboards to be erected in communities throughout South Africa to promote AIDS awareness and encourage discussion on the theme Break the Silence.

The newest billboard in the campaign is situated in Umgeni Road. It features artwork by Durban artist Sipho Inanda and is sponsored by Shepstone & Wylie Attorneys. The ultimate aim is to have around 300 billboards sponsored by business across South Africa.

"We believe that the campaign gives corporate South Africa a chance to strike a blow for the fight against AIDS and at the same time make contemporary art accessible to the South African public at a grass roots level," comments Shepstone & Wylie partner, Dick Breytenbach.