With the project “Panakia – You are not alone!”, KRASS e.V. aimed to reach children and young people who were particularly burdened during the pandemic or due to their socioeconomic background. The goal was to open up new avenues for them to cope, connect, and experience self-efficacy through art.
Art as a path to strength
The art project consisted of four blocks, each with workshops lasting several weeks. In these units, the participants creatively explored themes such as tolerance, uncertainty, trust, and cohesion.
They learned to reflect on feelings through their artistic expression and to find ways to process difficult experiences. This resulted in works that offered encouragement and revealed new perspectives – especially in times of personal or societal crisis.
Diverse artistic forms of expression
The artistic focus was determined jointly with the participants at the beginning of each block. This allowed them to freely choose between photography, painting, theatre or singing and to incorporate their own interests.
The working methods remained deliberately self-directed and independent. Each workshop ended with a reflective conclusion or a presentation in which the young people presented their work and shared their experiences.
Digital media and creative freedom
A central element of the project was the use of new media. The young people learned to use digital tools creatively – be it for documenting their work, for video performances, or online galleries. In this way, art and media literacy were closely linked.
Recognizing new opportunities
“Panakia” demonstrated that art can help young people cope with crises like the pandemic and strengthen their self-confidence. Through creative work, they developed a more positive attitude towards problems and discovered new ways to actively shape relationships and express themselves.
The project was funded by the King Baudouin Foundation.
