ERASMUS PLUS : YOUTH EXCHANGE
CREATIVE WAVE: Visual Arts Natural Co-Lab
13. – 19. August 2026 | Educational Centre Zaježová, Slovakia
Welcome to the Creative Wave: Visual Arts Natural Co-Lab!
This international youth exchange brings together 30 young people and group leaders from Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Spain for an unforgettable week in the beautiful natural surroundings of central Slovakia.
The project is designed as a safe, supportive, and inclusive non-formal education space. It responds directly to the needs of young people—especially those from rural areas, socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds, or facing various life challenges—who often have limited access to quality cultural activities and may experience social isolation or low self-confidence.
Our intention is to boost personal development, support mental well-being, and empower participants to step out of passive roles (like consuming social media) and become active co-creators carried by a free creative flow.
The Main Pillars of the Project
An Artistic Laboratory for Everyone 🎨 We focus heavily on the visual arts, creating an inspiring laboratory open to absolutely everyone—regardless of previous experience, talent, or artistic background. The goal is not a perfect final product, but the very process of discovery, experimentation, and authentic self-expression that helps break down internal barriers and the fear of evaluation.
Connecting Analog & Digital Worlds 📽️💻 Participants will explore a unique blend of traditional and modern visual art forms. The workshops include analog 8mm filmmaking, earthbound clay modeling, eco-photography (anthotype/chlorotype), and land art with elements of performance, seamlessly integrated with modern digital tools like light painting, luminography, and site-specific video projections into the landscape.
Peer-to-Peer Learning & Initiative 🤝 A key part of the program is co-led by young artists within the group. Through this peer-to-peer approach, participants will naturally improve their communication, teamwork, and leadership skills. Under the mentorship of experienced youth workers, you will have the space to take initiative and step into roles with greater responsibility.
Practical Inclusion & Diversity 🌍 We practice true social integration. Both the Slovak and Czech teams will naturally include young Ukrainian refugees who are temporarily living in these countries due to the war. Through sensitive facilitation, we build a safe environment with equal opportunities for everyone to connect, build empathy, and foster international friendships.
Sustainability & Digital Detox 🌿 We bridge visual creation with environmental awareness by working with natural materials and reflecting on our ecological impact. Staying in the nature of Zaježová, slowing down, and taking a healthy break from digital overload creates the perfect environment for reducing stress and strengthening internal stability. The exchange also includes a hiking trip to the Sekier Eco-community to explore permaculture and European volunteering opportunities (ESC).
Who is it for?
Young people aged 18–30 from Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Spain.
Youth interested in art, nature, photography, filmmaking, and multimedia (no prior experience needed!).
We warmly welcome and prioritize participants with fewer opportunities (social, economic, or geographical disadvantages).
Expected Outcomes
By the end of the exchange, participants will not only take home unique artworks and experiences, but they will also gain a Youthpass Certificate recognizing the key competencies they developed. Above all, young people will leave with the confidence that international cooperation is accessible to them, feeling motivated to bring new creative energy back to their local communities.
