The arid region of Xantus has long been plagued by water scarcity, leading to escalating conflicts between the three villages—Atheria, Belmore, and Corvus. For decades, the meager water supply from the Xantus River has been the source of bitter disputes, often resulting in violent clashes over access to irrigation channels and wells. However, a recent initiative spearheaded by a young artist, Elara, has offered a glimmer of hope. Elara, deeply affected by the cyclical violence, proposed a unique approach: using art as a tool for dialogue and reconciliation. Instead of focusing solely on the technical aspects of water management, her project, "Watercolors of Harmony," sought to engage the villagers emotionally, fostering empathy and understanding. Her method involved collaborative art workshops, where residents from all three villages worked together to create murals depicting their shared history, their aspirations for the future, and the importance of water conservation. Through this shared creative process, old prejudices began to melt away, replaced by a sense of collective ownership and responsibility. Atheria, known for its skilled pottery, contributed intricate clay sculptures illustrating the river's life cycle. Belmore, renowned for its vibrant textiles, wove tapestries depicting scenes of cooperation and mutual respect. Corvus, famed for its musical traditions, composed and performed songs expressing the villagers’ collective yearning for peace. While the "Watercolors of Harmony" project hasn't completely eradicated conflict, it has significantly reduced the frequency and intensity of violent incidents. The collaborative art has fostered a new sense of community, providing a platform for open communication and negotiation. The villagers now participate in regular meetings to discuss water allocation strategies, demonstrating a newfound capacity for peaceful conflict resolution. Despite its success, the project faces an uncertain future. Funding is dwindling, and some villagers, particularly older generations who remain entrenched in traditional rivalries, remain skeptical of Elara’s methods. The long-term sustainability of this artistic approach to conflict resolution in Xantus remains a challenge, highlighting the complex interplay between artistic expression, community participation, and the enduring power of ingrained social divisions. The question remains: can art truly serve as a sustainable pathway towards lasting peace in a region steeped in violent conflict over scarce resources?
1. According to the passage, what is the primary cause of conflict in Xantus?
2. What is the main purpose of Elara's "Watercolors of Harmony" project?
3. Which of the following best describes the impact of Elara's project on the villagers?
4. What is the main challenge facing the long-term sustainability of Elara's project?