More information
Description
The EMIA project responds to several problems in the field of higher education and student attitudes.
By implementing the project we will pursue these goals:
1. to deepen students'' social competences through closer knowledge of various vulnerable groups, as well as adverse social phenomena in the past and present
2. Improve a client-centered approach by knowing the needs of and working with disadvantaged groups
3. actively involve students in artistic activities and cooperation with other groups (age, social, health, ...)
4. Improve business, economic, financial skills...
To achieve these goals, the Faculty of Architecture has created a Creative Center platform that goes beyond the curriculum. The aim of the Creative centre is to bring students of Architecture and Design study programs not only to these art areas but also to introduce them to other types of art. The Creative centre has been aspiring to attract students from other schools of the arts as well as general public, creating an interdisciplinary and social platform for informal meetings, working contacts and creative activities reflecting the importance of the diversity of the cultural manifestations. In the project we will implement following types of activites: joint creation of bilateral theatrical perfomance, creation of a visual art work with the theme of social inclusion, discussions of social issues through created "imported" works of art. In the field of architecture and design we will carry out three other activities: workshop - design of an object/ or a building for disadvantaged group, workshop - creation of product for selected disadvantaged group, lectures on architecture in Norway with discussion.
Summary of project results
The EMIA (Empathy in Art) project addresses findings from research into the attitudes of high school and university students, which indicate an increased level of intolerance and a rise in hate expressions toward minorities.
Through its implementation, the project pursues the following goals:
- To deepen students'' social competences by providing closer insights into various vulnerable groups and addressing adverse social phenomena in both past and present contexts.
- To enhance a client-centered approach through understanding the needs of and collaborating with disadvantaged groups.
- To actively engage students in artistic activities and foster cooperation across diverse groups (age, social, health, etc.).
- To strengthen students'' business, economic, and financial skills.
To achieve these objectives, the Faculty of Architecture and Design has established a Creative Centre platform that operates beyond the standard curriculum. The Creative Centre aims to broaden the scope of students in Architecture and Design programs by introducing them to diverse artistic disciplines. It aspires to attract students from other arts institutions and the general public, serving as an interdisciplinary and social platform for informal gatherings, professional collaboration, and creative activities that emphasize the importance of cultural diversity.
The EMIA project implemented a diverse range of activities aimed at fostering empathy, cultural understanding, and collaboration. Key initiatives included the theatrical performance Silent Generation, which explored aging and intergenerational themes, engaging both professional artists and students in reflective performances. The project also featured Ephemeral Architecture, a creative workshop producing a monumental air installation symbolizing human connection and empathy.
A central outcome was the creation of a Community Kitchen in a refugee camp, built collaboratively by Slovak and Norwegian students and educators. This initiative provided a practical architectural solution while fostering intercultural understanding and cooperation. The Community Kitchen became a hub for creative activities, including joint cooking, art-making, and events designed to unite Ukrainian and Slovak communities.
A series of discussion panels addressed social issues such as aging, health challenges, minority rights, gender equality, and conflict resolution, engaging artists, experts, and audiences in meaningful dialogue. Additionally, workshops supported the development of socially impactful products, and lectures on Scandinavian architecture explored themes of artistic freedom, culminating in a publication and online resources. These initiatives collectively strengthened community ties, promoted empathy, and encouraged creative collaboration across social and cultural boundaries.
The project’s activities were highly successful, engaging a wide audience and reaching target groups beyond the Faculty of Architecture and Design, including the general public. Notable examples include the presentation of the artwork Afloat at the “Biela noc” festival in Bratislava and Košice. The activities also addressed pressing societal issues, such as the war in Ukraine and the tragic murders of two young gay men on Zámocká Street in Bratislava. Discussions held at the FAD STU Creative Center, including We Sat Down, tackled these topics and garnered significant viewership on the faculty''s YouTube channel.
A very beneficial achievement was the realization of the Community Kitchen in Gabčíkovo, primarily benefiting migrants from Ukraine. This initiative was symbolically extended to Bratislava during the EMIA Fest event. Students also engaged with topics they might not typically encounter, such as issues related to seniors, showcasing the project''s broad thematic reach.
The high level of involvement from target groups ensured greater awareness and understanding of critical issues. It is hoped that the project contributed to shaping students'' attitudes, promoting empathy and tolerance in a society where hatred and intolerance are often exploited for political purposes.
Summary of bilateral results
The Faculty of Architecture and Design STU in Bratislava has a history of collaboration with the Bergen School of Architecture in Norway, the main project partner. Joint project activities and reciprocal visits between the two schools enhanced mutual understanding of their unique approaches, laying a strong foundation for future cooperation. This collaboration extends beyond the pedagogical process to include scientific and research endeavors.