The Impact of the Lisbon Project Summer Art Project
The Lisbon Project’s Summer Art Project is in full swing, and the impact has been profound, thanks to the generous donation of materials by the Royal Talens Foundation. Last month, a debrief meeting with lead Art Therapist Paola Villanueva and her assistant highlighted the project’s success and outlined the next steps.
Joy and freedom
The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Many children have found joy and freedom in expressing themselves through art, significantly enhanced by the high-quality materials provided by Royal Talens. Over two weeks, art playgroups were held for two hours each, involving 25 children from 11 different nationalities. The attached pictures showcase the children actively engaging with the donated materials.
A safe and creative outlet
The Lisbon Project works with migrant and refugee families who often face challenging circumstances. The art sessions have revealed some of the difficult situations these children endure. After eight sessions, it became evident that many of these children have caregivers struggling with economic, social, or adaptive challenges as they integrate into Portuguese society. These challenges can lead to parental burnout, frustration, and even depression.
Recognizing the importance of supporting these children, the Lisbon Project continues to provide a safe and creative outlet for them to express their emotions and experiences through art.
Supported projects
In times of displacement and uncertainty, art can be a powerful tool for healing and connection. Ukrainian artist Vlad Kladko, now residing in Oslo, Norway, understands this deeply. Besides his work with refugees at the Tåsen camp, he has initiated a remarkable art project that brings beauty and creativity back into the lives of those affected by war.
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In September and October 2024, the SAWA Collective, a non-profit organization supporting young adult asylum seekers in the Netherlands, partnered with the Royal Talens Foundation to host a series of empowering creative workshops for women residing in an asylum seekers’ centre in Amsterdam.
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The past year has been marked by intense violence, suffering, and heartbreak in various conflict zones around the world. We want to emphasize that we stand with all victims in a conflict and support organisations that help these victims when needed.
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