FOSTERART

FOSTERART addresses the critical need for equitable access to cultural experiences, combating cultural and educational poverty prevalent in certain segments of society.

By collaborating with schools or informal education centres, the pilot action is set up in Forlì, Italy and Krakow, Poland. It aims at creating a network of families accustomed to attending cinemas, theatres, libraries, and museums, available to accompany families that do not have access to these places for a variety of reasons. The accompanied families may reciprocate by giving access to cultural and artistic spaces that may be unfamiliar to the accompanying families. In this way, a set of shared cultural experiences is created, between foster families and fostered families.

This pilot action will help develop crucial skills and approaches within both foster families and fostered families. For the former, it will cultivate empathy, mentoring skills, and a deeper understanding of social inequalities. For the latter, it will foster cultural literacy, confidence in navigating cultural spaces, a sense of belonging, and an appreciation for the arts. The underlying approach is rooted in participatory action research and co-creation, empowering all stakeholders to actively shape the intervention.

What is expected to be reached by this pilot action?

EMPOWERMENT
The establishment of sustainable networks of mutual support will lead to the distinction between “foster” and “fostered” families becoming fluid, reflecting a true exchange of experiences and roles. Over time, fostered families will become foster families themselves, sharing their unique perspectives and cultural backgrounds with new participants.

PARTICIPATION
Increased participation of families is fostered in selected cities, regardless of background or previous access. Periodic gatherings will be held to reflect on experiences, share stories, and plan future activities, strengthening the sense of community and belonging.

LINKAGE
Stronger social ties and intercultural dialogue will be established within the community, which will facilitate mutual understanding and inclusion. All activities within the pilot action will be based on co-creation and revolve around the active participation of all stakeholders involved (researchers, educators, families, members of the community).

Through questionnaires, interviews, and focus-group discussions, the ALPHABETICA partners will collect input from participants, gathering their experiences, stories of exclusion/belonging, tracking changes in attitudes and engagement over time, comparing different perspectives from diverse families, etc. All this information will serve to tailor interventions so as to design an initiative together with local governing bodies and associations to ensure its sustainability beyond the end of the project.