Project Overview
Project Reference: 2020-1-CY02-KA105-001767
Status: Completed
Duration: August 1, 2020 – May 31, 2022
EU Grant: €27,195
Programme: Erasmus+
Action Type: Youth Mobility
Countries Involved: Cyprus, Greece, Spain, Italy, Lithuania, Denmark, Romania, Estonia
Background
Many talented young artists face difficulties in building a career. They struggle with low self-esteem, lack of support, and limited access to information about the art market. Often, they do not know how to present their work, understand their rights, or earn a fair income. This situation is worse for youth from rural areas, minority backgrounds, or unstable social situations. The “Youth in ART” project aimed to support these young people by giving them tools to better understand the creative industry and grow both personally and professionally.
Objectives
The main goal of the project was to increase the number of young people who are self-employed or working in the art industry with fair pay. The project wanted to help participants develop their artistic and entrepreneurial skills, improve their self-confidence, and learn how to promote their talents. It also focused on raising awareness of the challenges artists face, providing access to useful resources, and encouraging cultural exchange through art. Another key objective was to promote Erasmus+ and non-formal education as effective tools for personal and professional growth.
Implementation
The project brought together 40 young people from 8 countries for a youth exchange held in Agros village, Cyprus. Most participants had fewer opportunities and were aged 16 to 25. They shared an interest in art but lacked the support to develop it into a career. An online application was used to select motivated young people who viewed art as more than just a hobby. The activities were designed using non-formal learning methods such as role plays, creative workshops, teamwork tasks, and simulations, all led by experienced youth workers.
Key Activities
Throughout the exchange, participants took part in practical sessions combining theory and creative practice. They explored different cultures through music, dance, traditional instruments, and presentations. Workshops focused on artistic entrepreneurship, leadership, intercultural understanding, and digital skills. Each day included energizers, name games, and feedback sessions to strengthen teamwork and reflection. Peer-to-peer learning and mentoring helped young people build personal skills and prepare for future projects. All sessions encouraged open-mindedness, respect, and active participation in society.
Results
As a result of the project, participants gained valuable knowledge and skills related to the creative industry. They learned how to present themselves, work in international teams, and take initiative. The experience also helped them better understand the European values of diversity, tolerance, and inclusion. They created materials like videos and brochures to share what they learned. The youth exchange helped participants feel more confident and better prepared to find or create jobs in the art field. The lessons from the exchange were documented and shared to reach even more young people.
Impact
The project had a strong impact on multiple levels. Individually, participants experienced personal growth and became role models in their communities. Locally, the project raised awareness about the struggles of young artists and inspired dialogue on cultural diversity and employment. Nationally and internationally, the results were shared through websites, social media, and events, helping other organisations and communities learn from this experience. The exchange helped promote the idea of using art and intercultural dialogue to build a more inclusive, tolerant, and connected European society.
