Renowned Georgian artist awarded French state prize

Famous Georgian pianist Elisso Bolkvadze has been honoured for her efforts to develop cultural relations between France and Georgia.

The internationally acclaimed artist was awarded the Order of Arts and Literature – a top French state prize – by France’s Culture Minister Fleur Pellerin.

Minister Pellerin said the Order was presented to Bolkvadze in recognition of her efforts to facilitate cultural exchange between the two countries. Over the years the prestigious honour has been awarded to famous Soviet ballet dancer Rudolf Nureyev and American composer Philip Glass.

Bolkvadze was presented with the Order of Arts and Literature at a formal ceremony last week at the French residence in Tbilisi.

France’s Ambassador to Georgia Renaud Salins presented Bolkvadze with the honour in front of Georgia’s President Giorgi Margvelashvili, diplomatic corps and culture representatives.

Bolkvadze began her international career in Switzerland and France before worldwide recognition made her a wanted artist across Europe and the United States.

The Georgian artist, who is fluent in French, received her education in France before showcasing her talent in many classical concerts in the country.

Bolkvadze (R) was the first Georgian to be awarded the UNESCO Artist for Peace title, which she received last year. Photo from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia.

A laureate at numerous international musical contests, Bolkvadze was also named a UNESCO Artist for Peace in October last year, becoming the 55th artist to promote UNESCO’s goals and values around the world.

Bolkvadze has also organised the classical music festival in Georgia’s seaside city Batumi for the past three years.