One of the key dimensions of the IN SITU project is the capacity building and skill development programme, designed to foster entrepreneurial social and business models and innovation in each of the six LAB regions (Azores archipelago, Portugal; Western coastal region, Ireland; Western region, Iceland; Rauma and Eurajoki municipalities, Finland; Valmiera County, Latvia; Šibenik-Knin County, Croatia) and to correspond to the needs of cultural and creative agents in these areas.
Unlocking Creative Potential: Highlights from the IN SITU Collaborative Interactive Workshops in the Azores
The IN SITU team from the University of the Azores (UAc), in partnership with the National Academy of Theatre and Film Arts “Kr. Sarafov”(NATFIZ), hosted the transformative event “Collaborate & Innovate: Boosting Creative Potential in the Azores” focused on creativity and collaboration in non-urban areas.
Five training workshops and an Open Conference were held in Ponta Delgada, Azores, and online on 3-4 July 2024, and brought together a diverse group of local and international artists, arts managers, entrepreneurs, researchers, educators, students, and cultural policymakers, fostering a collaborative and open atmosphere that helped participants acquire a variety of strategies and methods for managing creative organisations and projects in rural areas.
The event kicked off with the workshop “Storytelling & Creativity,” led by Leonor Sampaio da Silva, who explored storytelling as a powerful tool for promoting creativity. Following this, Sean Burns, from the Centre of Creative Technologies at the University of Galway, presented “The Future of Interactive Storytelling,” highlighting innovations in interactive media. The afternoon featured Lidia Varbanova, who conducted two workshops on social entrepreneurship and funding strategies. The final workshop was led by Bernardo Ferreira, focusing on “Digital Marketing,” emphasizing the importance of a strong online presence.
The event ended with a conference, during which participants had the opportunity to learn more about the IN SITU project and its journey. It was also a chance for the Azorean case studies, Transmalhar and Work in Progress, to showcase their projects.
Participants particularly appreciated the expertise and insights of the guest speakers and moderators, the design of the program’s content, the topics discussed, as well as the welcoming environment and the networking opportunities. Overall, the event was a resounding success, advancing a sense of community and equipping participants with new skills to drive innovation in their local contexts.
The next (and last…) IN SITU capacity building action
will be held in Croatia and online at the very end of September 2024!
Stay tuned and join us then!
