From February 21st to 23rd, 2023, the second training meeting of the Paint the Change project took place in Italy. Hosted by Gruppo Phoenix, this event welcomed Spanish partners from Red Sanamente to their facilities. The meeting was a blend of technical sessions and hands-on artistic workshops, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and creativity.
Technical Sessions
The meeting kicked off with a series of technical sessions aimed at:
- Monitoring Project Progress: Reviewing the achievements and milestones reached so far.
- Analyzing Current Status: Evaluating the project’s current position and identifying areas for improvement.
- Planning for the Future: Discussing forecasts and outlining tasks for the upcoming months to ensure the project’s continued success.
These sessions provided a comprehensive overview of the project’s trajectory, allowing partners to align their efforts and strategies.
Artistic and Practical Workshops
The Italian delegation showcased their expertise in sculpture, presenting stunning pieces created in their workshops. These works were part of the latest exhibition held in Italy, highlighting the talent and dedication of the participants.
A key highlight was the Paper Maché workshop, where attendees learned about the technique, its materials, and the proper methods for creating paper maché art. This hands-on experience was both educational and inspiring, offering new skills and insights to all participants.
Contributions from Spanish and Turkish Delegations
The Spanish delegation from Red Sanamente led two engaging painting activities:
- Conflicting Emotions: An exercise where participants expressed their inner conflicts through art.
- Self-Portraits: Using colors and words, attendees created self-portraits that reflected their identities and emotions.
Additionally, the Turkish delegation from Aile introduced their innovative work with the Stop Motion audiovisual technique. This presentation showcased another dimension of artistic expression and its potential in storytelling and mental health therapy.
The Transformative Power of Art
Throughout the meeting, partners discussed the profound benefits of art in improving mental health. The conversations emphasized how artistic activities can enhance daily life and foster social inclusion. Art’s ability to transform society and bridge communities was a recurring theme, underscoring its significance in the Paint the Change project.
Cultural Exchange and Hospitality
The Italian delegation extended a warm welcome, ensuring a culturally enriching experience for all attendees. They introduced participants to local artists, guided tours of beautiful places, and indulged everyone in Italy’s exquisite gastronomy. This hospitality not only strengthened professional bonds but also deepened cultural understanding and appreciation.
Looking Ahead
The Italy meeting was a resounding success, marked by productive discussions, creative workshops, and meaningful cultural exchanges. As we look forward to the next phases of the Paint the Change project, we are inspired by the collective passion and commitment to harnessing the power of art for social good.
Grazie Mille to the Italian delegation for their generosity and exceptional hospitality. We eagerly anticipate the continued collaboration and shared achievements in the coming months.
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