Project reference: 101173918, CREA
Duration: 1/10/2024 – 30/09/2026
EU Contribution: €199,993.27
Project Coordinator: Varsztatovnia (Poland)
Partners:
- INSTITOUTO ANAPTIXIS EPICHEIRIMATIKOTITAS ASTIKI ETAIREIA (Greece)
- BIBLIOTECA LÚCIO CRAVEIRO DA SILVA (Portugal)
- MIMMA DREAMS APS (Italy)
Main Themes: Ukrainian heritage, Inclusion, Diversity, War, Migration, Folklore, Unity through art exhibitions
Objectives
The project "Activating Ukrainian Artists - Echoes of Unity" (EoU) aims to support displaced Ukrainian artists in Europe, promoting their professional development and socio-cultural integration. EoU focuses on two fundamental actions that work together to achieve these goals.
On one side, the project seeks to provide Ukrainian artists with the necessary skills to establish themselves in the European art market. Special attention is given to training in entrepreneurship, event management, and the digitalization of works—essential tools to ensure new professional opportunities.
On the other side, EoU aims to facilitate the artists' integration into the European cultural scene by highlighting their unique cultural heritage and personal experiences. Through these actions, the project aims to create a bridge between their cultural roots and the European art landscape, contributing to enriching intercultural dialogue and promoting greater mutual understanding.
Expected Activities
The activities developed during the project mainly include:
- Training courses aimed at developing personal and professional skills and placing artists in the job market.
- Coaching and individual and group support pathways for artists, to contribute to creative processes and the expression of creativity and innovation throughout the project’s development.
- Organizing art exhibitions in Poland, Portugal, and Italy to showcase the unique cultural heritage and personal experiences of Ukrainian artists.
- Creating a digital platform that will host digital versions of the exhibitions, educational masterclasses, and a documentary film, making the content accessible to a broader audience across the EU and beyond.
Expected Results and Impact
The project aims to foster the professional development of Ukrainian artists by offering essential skills in areas such as entrepreneurship, event management, and the digitalization of their works. These skills will allow the artists to successfully enter the European art market and seize new job opportunities.
At the same time, EoU seeks to promote Ukrainian culture and the personal experiences of the artists, contributing to a better understanding of the challenges faced by displaced artists. Through dialogue and sharing stories and cultural heritage, the project aims to strengthen ties within the European Union, fostering constructive exchanges.
Furthermore, the initiative intends to contribute to the EU’s cultural richness by supporting cultural diversity, artistic expression, and social inclusion. By promoting these values, the project not only enriches the European cultural landscape but also supports the idea of a more inclusive community that respects differences.
Finally, EoU aligns perfectly with the goals of the Creative Europe program, promoting innovation and transnational cooperation in the cultural sector. Through these actions, the project not only supports Ukrainian artists but also demonstrates how art and culture can be powerful tools to build bridges and create cohesive communities.
This initiative not only supports the professional development of Ukrainian artists but also plays a crucial role in promoting intercultural understanding and appreciation for the richness of Ukrainian culture, thus fostering a more inclusive and empathetic European community.
Activities and Results
Kick-Off Meeting of Echoes of Unity: The Start of a Cultural Journey in Warsaw
On November 28 and 29, Warsaw became the heart of a new and ambitious European project: Activating Ukrainian Artists - Echoes of Unity. In the vibrant setting of the Polish capital, staff members from the four partner organizations—project coordinator Varsztatovnia (Poland), Mimma Dreams (Italy), BLCS (Portugal), and IED (Greece)—met to coordinate the initial phases of the initiative dedicated to displaced Ukrainian artists, aiming to help them find their place in the European cultural scene.
This meeting was essential for officially launching the project and defining technical, management, and administrative aspects necessary for ensuring the success of Echoes of Unity.
A Project for Artists, by Artists
Echoes of Unity aims to turn a challenge into an opportunity. By supporting Ukrainian artists who fled their country after the outbreak of war, the project seeks to provide them with concrete tools to grow professionally, acquire skills, gain visibility, and share their artistic vision while finding inclusive spaces both in the artistic and professional world, as well as socially. Training in entrepreneurship, event organization, and digitalizing their works are just some of the main focuses of this exciting journey.
But it's not just about technical skills: this project celebrates the richness of Ukrainian cultural heritage, giving artists the opportunity to share their unique stories and perspectives that the world needs to hear.
A Kick-Off Full of Energy and Ideas
During the first day of the kick-off meeting, the participating organizations shared insights from their respective realities and the significant contributions they could offer the project. They reviewed all the stages of Echoes of Unity, also defining the more specific organizational details, from exhibition and training organization to the essential logistical and administrative aspects of a European project.
The second day focused more on communication and dissemination. Topics like logo design and strategies to reach a wider audience were discussed, ensuring the project’s results would be visible and impactful. One particularly stimulating aspect? Creating a virtual exhibition space—a digital venue where art has no boundaries.
An International Team, A Shared Vision
Each partner brought unique expertise to the table, contributing to the success of the meeting:
- Varsztatovnia 🇵🇱, the project coordinator, manages the overall project logistics and partnership guidance.
- Biblioteca Lúcio Craveiro da Silva 🇵🇹 handles communication, social media promotion, and the creation of the digital platform.
- Mimma Dreams APS 🇮🇹, representing Italy, will lead the artistic coordination, working closely with artists on digitalization and exhibition creation.
- Institute of Entrepreneurship Development (IED) 🇬🇷 focuses on training and mentoring, creating growth pathways for artists.
Why Should Young People Follow It?
If you love art and believe in its power to connect people, Echoes of Unity is the project for you. The involved artists not only bring a unique perspective but also demonstrate how talent can thrive even in difficult contexts. The project promotes empowerment, inclusion, and creativity—values that inspire anyone looking to forge their own path.
With upcoming virtual and physical exhibitions, you'll have the opportunity to explore art in new and exciting ways, wherever you are.
Don’t Miss the Latest Updates!
Want to know how Echoes of Unity is progressing? Follow our website to stay updated on activities and discover opportunities to get involved firsthand. Art is a universal language, and this project is an invitation to listen and be part of it.
The message to take home? Art is more than just expression—it’s a means to build bridges, tell stories, and create spaces for change. Join us on this journey, because every voice matters and every echo leaves a mark.