And the oscar for best reaction goes to... The Iranians
The director of the Iranian film A Separation, which won the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film last night, delivered a heartfelt plea for the people of Iran to be recognised for their contributions to culture and not just for the harsh words exchanged lately between political officials.
"At this time many Iranians all over the world are watching us and I imagine them to be very happy. They are happy not just because of an important award or a film or a filmmaker, but because at the time when talk of war, intimidation, and aggression is exchanged between politicians, the name of their country, Iran, is spoken here through her glorious culture, a rich and ancient culture that has been hidden under the heavy dust of politics. I proudly offer this award to the people of my country, the people who respect all cultures and civilisations and despise hostility and resentment."
After Chris De Burgh, we now have Phil Collins in Tehran!
Herman Nackaerts the chief inspector for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Phil Collins the English musician.
A clay cylinder covered in Akkadian cuneiform script, damaged and broken, the Cyrus Cylinder is a powerful symbol of religious tolerance and multi-culturalism. In this talk Neil MacGregor, Director of the British Museum, traces 2600 years of Middle Eastern history through this single object.
My colourised photograph of Charles Dickens.
Today, much of the world is celebrating one of its greatest storytellers ever on the 200th anniversary of his birth. Above is my little tribute to him.
The actual Daguerrotype is by Jeremiah Gurney, circa 1867-1868.
Snowwoman with her two snowkids in Golders Hill Park, North London.
>> Click here to view Snow in London set