Overcoming the Culture of Humiliation (2018-2019)
The first phase of the project was dedicated to a series of art-oriented workshops, with the aim of introducing art as a tool for expression and overcoming the personal experiences of peer violence to a group of young LGBTIQ+ individuals. Art is a universal means of communication that we experience emotionally and intimately, contributing to a better understanding and empathy for the issues being portrayed. This encourages social change within the broader public and empowers individuals facing various forms of discrimination and harassment. Art has multiple benefits as it provides an opportunity to influence the wider public and promote a strong anti-violence message, while the creative process itself can provide great comfort and support to victims of violence.
The workshops were divided into four artistic areas, namely illustration, comics, poetry, and multimedia art, led by artists from various LGBTIQ+ organizations. Under the professional guidance of these artists and with pedagogical support from the trainers of the Ljubljana Pride Association, young individuals acquired specific skills in their chosen artistic field. The goal of the workshops was also to create a safe space where young LGBTIQ+ individuals with experiences of peer violence feel included, respected, and able to express and share their stories.
The artistic works created in the first phase of the project were then included in an exhibition, which opened in June 2019 as part of the Ljubljana Pride Festival in Ljubljana City Hall.
The exhibition “Overcoming the Culture of Humiliation” and the workshops are available for presentation in schools and youth centers across Slovenia with the aim of raising awareness about peer violence against LGBTIQ+ individuals in both the school and broader community environments. This also serves to highlight the fact that young LGBTIQ+ individuals are a part of the community and, just like everyone else, they require protection and a safe space to operate, live, and exist.
