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Sprout and Spread Art in Nature

2023-1-ES02-KA153-YOU-0001437562023Mobility of youth workersfinalized
Countries: ES|PL|RO|FR|TR|NL · Grant: €34,322.48
Digital youth workQuality and innovation of youth workEnvironment and climate change

Objectives

This project originated from a fruitful collaboration between Boodaville and "Space for Nature", a network of informal collectives composed of young artists interested in creating new artistic and educational methodologies focused on ecological issues. Several members of Space for Nature, including Özlem Kaya, Alberto Monreal, Karolina Budzisz and Derya Demiroglu, had previously participated in projects carried out by Boodaville. After several meetings and discussions, the idea of collaborating on a common project emerged. The initial proposal for the project was that Alberto and Derya would be in charge of coordinating the training part, taking advantage of Alberto's connection with both organizations, Space for Nature and Boodaville. The project was designed to address several critical gaps in the field of youth work. Among these gaps were: - Lack of methodologies that address the climate challenge and ecological issues: the importance of equipping youth and future generations with competencies and skills to address environmental challenges and create a sustainable future was recognized. However, there was a clear disconnect between young people and the natural environment, which was seen as a major gap. - Lack of artistic tools: There was a decline in the presence and relevance of art in both formal and non-formal education. This meant that young people and society as a whole were missing out on the benefits that art could bring, such as the expression of emotions, collaboration and teamwork. - Lack of methods to develop creativity and critical thinking: In an increasingly complex and uncertain world, with growing polarization and the spread of false information, youth work needed tools that promoted critical thinking and the generation of creative responses. - Disconnection with nature and excessive sedentary lifestyles and screen time: Modern society was characterized by harmful habits, such as sedentary lifestyles, unbalanced diets and excessive consumption, especially among youth and adults. This distanced society from an understanding, respect and connection with nature. In response to these shortcomings, the project set several key objectives: - Valuing art as an effective tool in youth work: It was recognized that art could help express emotions related to climate change, encourage action, reduce anxiety, and improve mental health. In addition, artistic activities such as music and theater required collaboration and teamwork, which contributed to the development of healthy social skills. Through artistic language, it was intended to foster a greater connection with nature, tapping into sensitive and creative capacities that were often overlooked in intellectual learning. - Conveying knowledge about climate and ecological issues: It was felt that art could also serve as an effective form of awareness and education about environmental issues, allowing young people to explore their emotions, thoughts and feelings around these topics. - Encourage critical thinking: It was believed that developing creativity through art could enhance young people's critical thinking and problem-solving skills, skills that could be applied to other aspects of their lives, including their well-being and lifestyle. - Promoting a healthy lifestyle and greater connection with nature: Raising awareness among young people about the importance of a healthy lifestyle was considered crucial, especially at ages when daily habits are established. Connection with nature and artistic practice were perceived as factors that increased well-being and mental health, making young people more adaptable, resilient, creative and skilled problem solvers. Art was also seen as a motivator for young people to be more physically active, such as through dance or painting, and to explore and value the natural world, encouraging environmentally friendly habits. One of the objectives of the project was to contribute to the development and expansion of the Space for Nature network and its associated informal collectives. This was done by providing administrative support through Boodaville and an institutional framework through the Erasmus+ program. It was expected to accompany the network in the process of formalizing their organizations and advancing professionally in the context of youth work.

Project partners (6)