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Episode details

World Service,22 Dec 2018,26 mins

The Art of the Gift

The Cultural Frontline

Available for over a year

What does it take for a poet to create a new work to mark a season of celebration and religious tradition? The poets and professors, Dr Kwame Dawes, and Jaqueline Osherow talk about writing verse, song and poetry for festive occasions. A painting, a pair of trainers or a horse– those are just a few of the gifts received by world leaders this year but what’s the meaning behind these political presents? The writer Agnes Poirier unwraps the do’s and don’ts of diplomatic gifting. Has a book, a film, a painting ever changed the way you see the world? The education activist Ziauddin Yousafzai tells the story of the work of art that inspired him to name his daughter, Malala. We pay a visit to Harlem, New York City and the historic New Amsterdam Music Association. Two of its members take us behind the scenes at this iconic music venue and community cultural treasure. Presented by Tina Daheley. Image: A bon voyage gift wrapped with map paper and pink bow. Credit: Getty Images

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