Project Introduction:
We are living in a period of time where there is a lot of division. Tragic events happening in Ukraine, Palestine, and other parts of the world have a significant impact on our European social, political, and cultural landscape. Urban segregation is a common issue in most European cities. New communities and people from different social backgrounds, faiths, and ethnicities are often feared and demonized.
The continued exclusion and separation of these diverse communities has prevented opportunities for mutual trust and tolerance to develop, creating an environment where nationalism can thrive. Europe, and the world as a whole, are constantly under threat. Unfortunately, reality often surpasses social consciousness, with political, social, and economic
turmoil, inequalities, corruption, oppression, exploitation, racism, and xenophobia being prevalent.
What is Open Up? A summary of the project:
The Open Up project (OU) aimed to explore how culture can help create new forms of community relations in a world that is increasingly divided. Through its various activities, OU provided a strong and sustainable platform for creative synergies, moving away from segregation and towards a more inclusive society. The project focused on developing arts practices among underprivileged communities in six different countries: Cyprus, France, Greece, Sweden, Finland, and Spain.
It aimed to unearth talented artists, performers, designers, and craftsmen, with a special focus on young people, from neglected and underprivileged urban environments. To achieve this, the project created six satellite platforms that empower creators to develop their skills, present their works, and create a framework for sustaining their work after the project ends. Additionally, a seventh mobile platform from The Netherlands traveled to the other six countries to
creatively explore and share the OU experiences.
Thematic and Design Lab project proposal:
When refugees arrive in host countries, they face huge challenges in starting their new lives. NGOs and volunteers play a crucial role in helping these refugees meet their needs
during the resettlement process. Refugees often struggle to find information, secure employment, and connect with members of the host community.
The workshop looked to develop potential products or services of various forms and applications, according to the participants’ skills. The aim was to create the foundation of
social interactions between refugees and local communities and to support the first’s smooth integration with the latter.
https://nimac.org.cy/open-up-coordinated-by-pierides-foundation/
© Pierides Foundation, Nicosia-Cyprus 2021 - 2025.
