Sarah Bracht and Bryan Campione have proven that you don't need to leave UD to experience and appreciate other cultures. As coordinators of ArtStreet's month long exhibition, 'Citizens of the World,' they are taking a hands-on approach to the exploration of world cultures.

According to Bracht, the name of the exhibit is not just a catchy phrase. Bracht was inspired by existentialist philosophers Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre, who first coined the term 'citizen of the world' in their writings. To Bracht, being a citizen of the world means traveling and learning about other cultures. Bracht wishes to instill this multicultural mindset in her fellow UD students.

Bracht and Campione, both of whom study French, have been working diligently on this project since last September. After writing a proposal for the McGregor Grant, meeting with language department chair Dr. Mosher and contacting several students who had studied abroad, the ideas started blossoming.

While the two have been equally involved with the project, Campione views Bracht as the leader, calling her the 'head honcho.'

The month-long exhibit kicks off Wednesday at ArtStreet with a reception from 6 to 8 p.m. in Studio D. Since food is a means of cultural identity, the coordinators thought it appropriate to serve a variety of world cuisine at the reception. So, they will offer complimentary food and refreshments from around the globe.

According to Campione, the cuisine will be appetizers like bruschetta, salads, hummus and pitas. Decadent desserts like baklava and ??clairs will also be on the menu, along with special juices and tea to complement.

A photography exhibit is also part of the 'Citizens of the World' exhibition, which includes pictures by UD students who have traveled abroad through various programs, along with personal statements about the work. Campione said that every continent is represented in the photographs. From an orphanage in Burma to a gondola in Venice, the photographs allow viewers to 'see the world in a few hours.'

Campione hopes that this display will be an eye opening experience. He said he felt a great number of UD students study abroad but there are still many who don't get the opportunity. Through the photography exhibit he hopes students can see the travels of other students, and hopefully get the urge to one day study abroad themselves.

Films are also a means of artistic expression. This is why the International Film Series will showcase four foreign films as part of 'Citizens of the World.' Showing today is 'Kolya,' a Czech film and an Oscar-winner for Best Foreign Film in 1996. Then, on Feb. 21, is Academy Award nominee 'The Constant Gardener,' which recounts the disturbing story of the murder of a British diplomat's wife. Wrapping up the film series will be the French foreign film, 'Diabolique,' on Feb. 28 and 'The White Diamond,' a German documentary, on March 7. All films start at 7 p.m. in Studio B and are sponsored by the UD Film Studies Program.

On March 1, a panel consisting of international students and study abroad participants will be held in Studio D, followed by a reception. Students involved in the panel will discuss their experiences abroad and share memories.

The Art Street Caf?? will host 'International Caf?? Week,' from Feb. 20 to 24. The newly added flat screen TV will display a slideshow of several scenes from abroad, while music from around the world plays. In addition, the Caf?? will offer an assortment of coffee and tea from around the world.

Scheduled dance performances are also sure to be a cultural treat. Performers skilled in Irish folk dancing and belly dancing will offer classes and performances in the studios.

Campione and Bracht have high hopes for 'Citizens of the World.'

'Why not take a chance and see the world'? asked Campione.

'Citizens of the World' will be on display at ArtStreet until March 10. A complete schedule of the month's events is available at http://artstreet.udayton.edu/world. Further questions can be directed to Sarah Bracht at brachtsj@notes.udayton.edu or the ArtStreet office at 229-5101.