Following last year’s “Rose Petals” action campaign during which 42.000 signatures were gathered from all over Europe for the need for action by the EU to combat this practice and to provide comprehensive support to women and girls affected. A number of international artists have collaborated with the END FGM European Campaign to create art pieces with over 8,000 signed rose petals.

Using the creative talent and generosity of European designers, the rose petals have been used to create works of art. These art pieces will be exhibited across Europe to urge decision makers to deliver creative solutions so that FGM can be prevented and girls and women can be protected.

The first exhibition features a dress named ‘Fones’ (voices in Greek) created by Nayia Evangelou, a Cypriot artist, inspired by the goals of the campaign. The dress represents the protection that Europe can provide women, but also the fragility of life and the additional complications a pregnant woman is at risk of, when she has been subjected to the practice of FGM. The dress has been exhibited at the Cyprus Parliament from 5 – 12 March 2012.

To read the action leaflet click here.