According to the Public Relations and International Affairs Department of Kish Free Zone Organization the sculptors expressed their satisfaction over the organization of the symposium and described KFZO efforts in this regard as "praise worthy."

A Hungarian sculptor taking part in the symposium said the artistic event has been held at a very high level and the participants have been supplied with good equipment and tools.

Beata Rostas, who has won seven awards in international sculpture symposiums emphasized that she has already had the experience of creating sculpture at the seaside, describing working in the Persian Gulf Island as a "unique experience."

Belarusian sculptor Viktar Kopach who is attending a sculpture symposium in Iran for the first time said he is impressed by the professionalism of the Iranian sculptors.

He said he will definitely take part in the next edition of Kish International sculpture symposium.

Italian sculptor Alessio Ranaldi expressed satisfaction over the equipment and facilities provided to the participants.

He said the artistic event will pave the way for the promotion of cultural activities on Kish Island. Meanwhile, Iranian sculptor Mohammad Reza Yazdi described the symposium as a professional event saying the artistic event will bring about positive outcomes for the Persian Gulf Island of Kish. "Installing the sculptures created in the symposium will give an urban and cultural identity to Kish Island," he underscored. Another Iranian sculptor taking part in the symposium said the sculptures will boost the urban spaces across Kish Island.

The first edition of Kish International Sculpture Symposium has kicked off with 17 Iranian and foreign sculptors in attendance and it will be underway until March 1.

Five Iranian sculptors and 12 foreign artists from US, Bulgaria, Italy, Portugal, Taiwan, Belarus, Spain, Costa Rica, Serbia, Germany, Georgia, and Hungary are vying in the artistic event.

Each sculptor has been given a 100/150/300 travertine stone. The sculptors will also receive 3000 dollars as reception award.

Kish Free Zone Organization has planned the symposium with the aim of implementing diverse cultural and artistic programs on the Persian Gulf Island.

The creators of the top three works will respectively receive $7,000, $5,000, and $3,000 as well as diplomas of honor.

PR & Int'l Affairs Department- KFZO