House of Mine

Description

The whole project consists of complex research on what home is, what it means, how it can form an individual personality, and how it can influence the development of one’s life, decision making and existence. The project offers theoretical research, artistic engagement, broad public involvement, and inclusion of vulnerable groups. The project partners´ professional team helps to organise events from the indicators, and host some Slovak visual artists and curators who prepare activities in Norway, they also collaborate on the selection of artists, and researchers, help with the management, and exchange of know-how.

Summary of project results

The "House of Mine" project addressed several significant challenges in the cultural and social landscape:

1. A lack of inclusive and accessible cultural activities, particularly for vulnerable groups such as seniors, children, and minorities.
2. Limited opportunities for international artistic collaboration and cross-border exchange of expertise.
3. The need for enhanced audience engagement and interaction with contemporary art, especially in regions with limited exposure.
4. Insufficient focus on social and political issues in art, such as war, displacement, and media manipulation.

By targeting these issues, the project sought to foster inclusivity, highlight critical societal themes, and strengthen cultural collaboration.

The project implemented several interconnected activities:

1. Exhibition Series: Hosted the international exhibition "Power and Frailty", featuring works addressing themes of war, conflict, and displacement. The exhibition toured from Norway to Slovakia, enhancing its reach and impact.
2. Workshops and Events: Organized workshops led by Norwegian artist Lise Wulff, including the creation of an interactive installation symbolizing resilience and solidarity. Additional workshops and activities targeted children, seniors, and minority groups.
3. Educational Initiatives: Conducted guided tours, creative workshops, and summer camps to engage participants of all ages, integrating them into the artistic process.
4. Residencies and Networking: Hosted international artists in Slovakia, fostering cross-cultural collaboration and creative exchange.
5. Community Engagement: Developed programs and activities that emphasized inclusivity and accessibility, such as tea events for seniors and creative labs for children.

The project achieved the following outcomes:

1. Enhanced Cultural Accessibility: Engaged vulnerable groups, such as seniors and children, through tailored workshops and events, increasing their participation in cultural activities.
2. Strengthened Cross-Border Collaboration: Facilitated partnerships between Slovak and Norwegian institutions, promoting knowledge exchange and artistic cooperation.
3. Community Impact: Engaged local communities and international audiences through exhibitions and interactive installations, fostering dialogue on critical societal issues.
4. Capacity Building: Provided artists and cultural professionals with opportunities for professional growth, including residencies and skill-building workshops.
5. Promoted Social Awareness: Highlighted themes of war, resilience, and media integrity, encouraging reflection and discussion among diverse audiences.

Beneficiaries:

• Vulnerable groups (seniors, children, and minorities).
• Artists and cultural professionals from Slovakia and Norway.
• Local and international audiences exposed to the project''s exhibitions and activities.

Summary of bilateral results

The project benefited significantly from the partnership with Norwegian organizations, including Nitja Centre for Contemporary Art and Lise Wulff. These collaborations provided expertise, resources, and access to international networks, enhancing the project''s scope and quality.Key contributions included:Artistic Expertise: Norwegian partners contributed to curating exhibitions and leading workshops, enriching the cultural content and ensuring professional execution.Resource Sharing: The partnership enabled access to best practices, creative methodologies, and logistical support, enhancing project implementation.Cross-Cultural Exchange: Artist residencies and exhibition tours facilitated knowledge sharing and fostered long-term relationships between Slovak and Norwegian professionals.Future Plans: The successful collaboration has laid the groundwork for continued partnerships, with both sides expressing interest in future projects focusing on inclusivity, cultural exchange, and social awareness through contemporary art.