08/11/2023
Articulate
In the realm of artistic expression and the written word, a transformative quest unfolded within the embrace of an inspiring Mediterranean summer in 2022. Nicosia, with its promise of boundless inspiration, played host to a diverse group of young persons hailing from the landscapes of Granada and the shores of Cyprus. It was here, amid the ancient stones and azure skies, that the Erasmus+ project ARTiculate set the stage for this creative journey.
ARTiculate - an alternative approach to participation in democratic life, ventured beyond the conventional, offering creative outlets that transcended the ordinary in order for participants to explore their own creativity. Guided by mentors, who were artists themselves, a chorus of voices emerged, weaving stories, crafting ceramics, and creating vivid images on the canvas of imagination.
Beyond their artistic endeavors, the workshops fostered connections that transcended borders. In the rich tapestry of cultures, that is Cyprus, participants nurtured their growth and self-awareness. It was an experience that left its mark, not only on their creative souls but on their understanding of the world. In November of 2022, the project's creative writing workshops transitioned to online workshops harnessing the power of technology, not only as a means of teaching but as a tool for sustainable change. Through the written word and the art of storytelling, young participants delved into the pressing issue of our time: the relentless march of climate change.
In the pages that follow, you will discover the literary works and artistic creations born of this transformative journey. They are the voices of a generation, inspired by Nicosia's summer embrace and guided by the principles of ARTiculate - an alternative approach for participation in democratic life. They are the testament to the power of creativity, empathy, and the indomitable spirit of youth.
Click to Download Articulate Booklet:
10/07/2023
Arts & Creativity for Empowerment
A guide to utilizing arts and creativity to empower victims of domestic violence
A concise and comprehensive resource designed to provide practical guidance on harnessing the power of arts and creativity to empower individuals affected by domestic violence. This guide equips individuals and organizations with the necessary tools, methodologies, and exercises to facilitate self-expression, and personal growth, ultimately fostering resilience and empowerment among survivors of domestic violence through artistic expression. This guide presents the vision of each of the art mentors involved in the project, the methodologies and approaches incorporated so they can be shared and be utilized for similar endeavors in the future.
Click to Download Guide:
ARTS & CREATIVITY for Empowerment
06/07/2023
RESTART - by SURVIVORS
Within the pages of this art book, we invite you to witness the transformative power of creativity and the unyielding spirit of survivors. Courageous women from diverse age groups, languages, cultural backgrounds, and social contexts came together to harness their artistic expression as a means of reclaiming their voice, transforming their narratives, and inspiring change. Through paint, clay, and words they express their unique personalities and their individual stories –stories of strength, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of survival.
All contributors to this art book are women survivors of domestic violence who are serviced by the Association for the Prevention and Handling of Violence in the Family (SPAVO). They participated in a series of interactive workshops during which art mentors guided them to explore the dimension of self-empowerment through visual arts and creative writing with the intent of transforming their personal narratives from victims of violence into advocates empowered for their own positive futures.
Their works of art resonate with myriads of emotions and they stand as testament of how art plunges into the depths of human experience and how within art we find solace, a sanctuary, and encouragement to face our battles.
Click to Download Art Book:
05/04/2021
Not in the Ornamental Teapot
Not in the Ornamental Teapot is a masterful reimagining of woman. Strong-minded and surprisingly audacious heroines challenge and deconstruct the roles assigned to them by dominant narratives and preconceptions. Voices of older women, which have been traditionally neglected in literature, are granted with space and freedom to articulate their stories. In spite of the traumas inflicted upon them [or because of them] these quiet matriarchs rise to protect what they hold holy—family, home, love.
All proceeds from this publication will go toward the financial support of Room for Art.
Acknowledgments
This publication would not have been possible without the generous contribution of Marina Zervou, for the cover art, and Andreas Kyriakou of ANKY Studios, for the book and cover design.
