The third training meeting of the Paint the Change project was held at the Red Sanamente facilities in Villena, Spain, from May 9th to 11th, 2023. This meeting was attended in person by our partners from Gruppo Phoenix in Italy and Aile in Turkey, marking a significant milestone in our ongoing Erasmus project collaboration.
Day 1: Project Analysis and Strategy Development
The first session focused on analyzing the current status of the project. Participants engaged in discussions to identify new strategies and techniques to be implemented in the coming months. This session was crucial for setting the direction for future activities and ensuring the project’s continued success.
Day 2: Sharing Techniques and Educational Material
The second day was dedicated to sharing the work and techniques employed by all project partners. Each delegation presented their proposals, and we collaboratively worked on developing educational materials. This exchange of knowledge and resources was invaluable in enhancing the overall quality and impact of the Paint the Change project.
Day 3: Practical Training and Hands-On Workshops
The third day offered practical training for both users and professionals of Red Sanamente. Participants had the opportunity to learn firsthand about the approaches and techniques from the Turkish and Italian delegations. We put into practice the audiovisual techniques developed by our Turkish partners and the proposals from the Italian delegation.
A highlight of the day was the initiation of a sculptural intervention centered around mental health. Guided by our Italian partners, we began constructing a life-size human sculpture under the theme “The head can be iron or it can be feather.” This hands-on activity fostered creativity and provided a tangible expression of our shared goals.
Cultural and Leisure Activities
Throughout the meeting, participants also enjoyed a variety of cultural and leisure activities. We experienced local gastronomy, celebrated the Moors and Christians festival, and toured historical monuments in Villena. Additionally, we took part in the Estigma Festival organized by Red Sanamente, which featured cultural events aimed at combating mental health stigma. Our activities garnered attention from local media, and we were invited for interviews on radio stations, helping to raise awareness about our project.
Reflections and Future Plans
The Spain meeting was a resounding success, marked by productive sessions, enriching cultural experiences, and strengthened partnerships. The collaborative efforts of all delegations have set a strong foundation for the next phases of the Paint the Change project.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all participants for their dedication and enthusiasm. Together, we are making significant strides in promoting mental health awareness and fostering artistic expression as a tool for social change.
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