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On 7th October, the C.A.R.E. (Ceramic Artworks to Raise Esteem and Employability) project was launched in Cagliari. This Erasmus+ initiative is organised by Ierfop Onlus and supported by the European Community. The project, which will conclude on 11th October, aims to promote social inclusion for visually impaired young people through the art of ceramics.
The workshop, hosted in Cagliari, involves participants from various European countries, including Ireland, Cyprus, Poland, and Greece. A total of 72 young individuals, accompanied by 18 educators and 6 visually impaired experts, are taking part in this initiative, supported by their families and local ceramicists. At the end of the project, the artworks created by the participants will be exhibited in both their home cities and in Cagliari, symbolising their growth journey.
Roberto Pili, president of Ierfop Onlus, emphasised the project’s main objectives: “We want to enhance the self-esteem of visually impaired young people through creative activities such as ceramics and increase their employment opportunities, not only in the artistic field but also in social and manual sectors.”
The project also includes specific training for educators better to engage visually impaired young people in their activities. “Ceramics is not just an art form; it is a tool for developing essential psychomotor skills,” Pili added.
Claudia Serra officially opened the project, explaining the importance of providing visually impaired young people with a personal and professional growth path through art. “Ceramics allows participants to tangibly experience the results of their efforts, thereby boosting their self-esteem,” she stated. The project also includes the creation of an entrepreneurial manual to assist young people in turning their passion into a profession.
Bachisio Zolo, director of Ierfop, reiterated the institute’s central role in promoting this project: “Cagliari, with its rich artistic tradition, is the ideal place to give visually impaired young people the confidence they need to contribute to the development of their communities.”
One of the key elements of C.A.R.E. is the Ceramics Laboratory, which offers 100 hours of training over 10 months. During this time, participants will learn ceramic techniques under the guidance of experts, enhancing their motor and artistic skills.
The project goes beyond just the artistic aspect. C.A.R.E. provides comprehensive support to participants, with accessible facilities and dedicated facilitators ensuring that everyone feels part of an inclusive network. Moreover, the project aims to promote employability by registering participants in the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (EYE) programme, providing them with concrete job opportunities.
A highlight of the project will be the final exhibition of the artworks, which will reflect the personal growth journeys of the young participants involved. C.A.R.E. is an artistic project and a platform for inclusion and self-determination for visually impaired young people.
Roberto Pili stated, “C.A.R.E. offers visually impaired young people a unique opportunity to express their potential, develop skills, and build a better future.“
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