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The Banner of Peace PAX CULTURA "Where there is Peace, there is Culture; Where there is Culture, there is Peace." - Nicholas Roerich The Banner of Peace is the official flag in use around the world by members of the Planet Art Network . It is displayed at all events, gatherings, and centers which promote natural time and planetary peace. The Roerich Pact and Banner of Peace was designed by artist and humanitarian, Nicholas Roerich (1874 - 1947). It is an international treaty signed by some countries including the United States. The Roerich Peace Pact established an international agreement allowing any nation to protect its cultural or artistic heritage with a symbolic banner, the Banner of Peace. Signed on April 15, in 1935, this treaty is international law today. Just as the Red Cross protects hospitals, the Banner of Peace was implemented to protect culture. Written with the assistance of international experts and lawyers, the Banner of Peace was praised by many notable figures during its signing including Albert Einstein, George Bernard Shaw, and H.G. Wells. The Pact states, "educational, artistic, and scientific institutions... shall be protected and respected by the belligerents ... without any discrimination as to the state allegiance of any particular institution or mission... these missions may display a distinctive flag (the Banner of Peace).. which will entitle them to special protection and respect..." Thus any site of cultural activity around the world can fly the Banner of Peace to declare itself neutral, independent of combatant forces, and protected by international treaty. The distinctive Banner is three red circles surrounded by a larger red circle on a white banner. The banner is a deep red or magenta color to symbolize the color of our one blood, which is the same for all peoples. The top circle represents spirituality and encompasses the truth of all religions, that we can all unite regardless of our distinct beliefs. The two circles on the bottom represent art and science. The circle that surrounds the three spheres represents culture, the unity of art, science, and spirituality. This symbol appears on one of Roerich’s paintings, Madonna Oriflamma, from 1932. He also Described the circle as representing the eternity of time, encompassing the past, present and future. The symbol for the Banner of Peace can be found in many cultures and numerous philosophical systems. Found in all cultures, the Banner of Peace is the perfect symbol to bring all peoples together in peace. You can find more information about Roerich and his work on the homepage of the Nicolas Roerich Museum. |