House on the Hill
Connecting contemporary art in spaces of cultural and natural heritage
In the remote corners of the Municipality of Medvode, a unique story began to unfold ten years ago—the Hiša na hribu project. Since then, across three locations, we have been co-creating a unifying narrative of revitalizing cultural heritage through a dialogue with contemporary art. Driven by the desire to preserve the authenticity of our region, we embarked on a determined journey of rural regeneration through connection and collaboration. At the heart of this story are artists—protagonists of
Slovenia
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Prototype level
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
ERDF : European Regional Development Fund
Over ten years of co-creating the story of Hiša na hribu, we have participated in two European projects, with our main partners and initiators of the entire initiative, Zavod CCC, playing a key role.
In 2023 and 2024, we supported the Smoties project, led in Slovenia by the Urban Planning Institute. The institute recognized Hiša na hribu as a good practice example within the SMOTIES project – Small Places. Big Ideas. This initiative brings together successful examples of revitalizing public spaces in small and remote locations across Europe. The project was financially supported by the Municipality of Medvode, and all key partners of Hiša na hribu participated in its implementation: Zavod CCC, Domačija Pr' Lenart, Župnija Preska, and the public institution Sotočje.
Zavod CCC successfully secured European funding for the project "In the Embrace of Cultural and Natural Heritage," which was selected in 2019 through a public call aimed at achieving the objectives of the Local Action Group (LAS) Strategy for Sustainable Development – LAS Za mesto in vas. This call supported projects contributing to sustainable development and the revitalization of local communities.
From the same program, we have again secured European funding this year. Zavod CCC applied for the grant, and we are participating as partners in the project "Together in the Village."
In 2023 and 2024, we supported the Smoties project, led in Slovenia by the Urban Planning Institute. The institute recognized Hiša na hribu as a good practice example within the SMOTIES project – Small Places. Big Ideas. This initiative brings together successful examples of revitalizing public spaces in small and remote locations across Europe. The project was financially supported by the Municipality of Medvode, and all key partners of Hiša na hribu participated in its implementation: Zavod CCC, Domačija Pr' Lenart, Župnija Preska, and the public institution Sotočje.
Zavod CCC successfully secured European funding for the project "In the Embrace of Cultural and Natural Heritage," which was selected in 2019 through a public call aimed at achieving the objectives of the Local Action Group (LAS) Strategy for Sustainable Development – LAS Za mesto in vas. This call supported projects contributing to sustainable development and the revitalization of local communities.
From the same program, we have again secured European funding this year. Zavod CCC applied for the grant, and we are participating as partners in the project "Together in the Village."
No
071: Medvode (SI)
THE HOUSE ON THE HILL is a network of small, locally adapted cultural heritage spaces in the rural hinterland of the Slovenian capital. It was initiated by a non-governmental organization, which grew from an art project into an innovative hub in the heart of the Polhov Gradec Dolomites Landscape Park. After 10 years of operation, it now spatially connects 4 dispersed locations: Žlebe, Belo, Topol, and Zavrh.
The project is best known for placing contemporary art in objects and areas of natural and cultural heritage. The starting point is the untapped potential of cultural heritage and the perceived lack of social cohesion in the remote areas of the municipality. Through its activities, it connects professional artists, who are the driving force of the project, with owners and managers of cultural heritage, architects, conservators, and other experts, public officials, and the local community. In addition to art and culture, these are spaces for socializing, lectures, and educational trails.
The bottom-up initiative now operates horizontally with mutual support and dynamics. It connects private, church, and public buildings, and develops new management models to establish community spaces in rural areas. Through artist residencies, artists, and researchers, it enables the exploration of independent cultural spaces outside the cities and new perspectives on contemporary art. It innovatively establishes 'always accessible' exhibition spaces that revive heritage and provide insight into current artistic production in rural areas.
Some of the goals: building community, making contemporary art and culture accessible in the local environment, restoring cultural heritage before new construction, adapted reuse of buildings, building lasting partnerships between stakeholders, new forms of cultural heritage management, establishing public spaces, connecting and sharing good practices. Drawing from local content and connecting the past, present, and future.
The project is best known for placing contemporary art in objects and areas of natural and cultural heritage. The starting point is the untapped potential of cultural heritage and the perceived lack of social cohesion in the remote areas of the municipality. Through its activities, it connects professional artists, who are the driving force of the project, with owners and managers of cultural heritage, architects, conservators, and other experts, public officials, and the local community. In addition to art and culture, these are spaces for socializing, lectures, and educational trails.
The bottom-up initiative now operates horizontally with mutual support and dynamics. It connects private, church, and public buildings, and develops new management models to establish community spaces in rural areas. Through artist residencies, artists, and researchers, it enables the exploration of independent cultural spaces outside the cities and new perspectives on contemporary art. It innovatively establishes 'always accessible' exhibition spaces that revive heritage and provide insight into current artistic production in rural areas.
Some of the goals: building community, making contemporary art and culture accessible in the local environment, restoring cultural heritage before new construction, adapted reuse of buildings, building lasting partnerships between stakeholders, new forms of cultural heritage management, establishing public spaces, connecting and sharing good practices. Drawing from local content and connecting the past, present, and future.
heritage
community
art
beautiful
walking
/ The restoration of existing cultural heritage buildings as a sustainable and adaptive reuse. This approach reduces resource consumption and preserves the authenticity of the space. Instead of constructing new cultural venues, we focus on renovating and revitalizing cultural heritage sites within the local community.
/ Use of local and natural materials (wood, stone, grass) in the restoration of cultural heritage spaces, art installations, exhibitions and workshops. This reduces the carbon footprint and strengthens the local economy.
/ The thoughtful use of materials in renovation and exhibition installation is based on the principles of circularity, recycling and reconstruction. This conserves resources and reduces waste, using natural and found materials such as driftwood, marsh grasses, cut branches and stones.
/ Promoting hiking. All the spaces of the mentioned cultural heritage are located along hiking trails (municipal, hiking, educational trails), thereby encouraging people to engage in healthy physical activity.
/ Sustainable adaptation of the program to the seasons, which allows us to avoid heating the buildings in winter, thus eliminating the need for additional energy input. During this time, we work more with the locals in their homes. From door to door.
/ Bringing culture to the countryside, reducing commuting to the city.
Aim: To reduce our carbon footprint through the restoration and preservation of cultural heritage and the use of sustainable practices.
/ Use of local and natural materials (wood, stone, grass) in the restoration of cultural heritage spaces, art installations, exhibitions and workshops. This reduces the carbon footprint and strengthens the local economy.
/ The thoughtful use of materials in renovation and exhibition installation is based on the principles of circularity, recycling and reconstruction. This conserves resources and reduces waste, using natural and found materials such as driftwood, marsh grasses, cut branches and stones.
/ Promoting hiking. All the spaces of the mentioned cultural heritage are located along hiking trails (municipal, hiking, educational trails), thereby encouraging people to engage in healthy physical activity.
/ Sustainable adaptation of the program to the seasons, which allows us to avoid heating the buildings in winter, thus eliminating the need for additional energy input. During this time, we work more with the locals in their homes. From door to door.
/ Bringing culture to the countryside, reducing commuting to the city.
Aim: To reduce our carbon footprint through the restoration and preservation of cultural heritage and the use of sustainable practices.
The House on the Hill project is designed to bring together community, aesthetics, cultural heritage and contemporary art to create a space that is not only visually appealing, but also enriches the visitor experience, allowing for a deeper engagement with art, nature and one's own emotions.
The project goes beyond the renovation of space - it becomes a cultural meeting point where heritage preservation is combined with creativity and community life.
/ The restoration of existing heritage buildings respects traditional architectural features, respecting the aesthetic values of the past and using natural materials.
/ Harmony with nature - art installations in the outdoor spaces of heritage sites follow the characteristics of the landscape.
/ Contemporary artistic elements - installations and interventions add dynamism and creativity to the space. Opportunity for visitors to encounter contemporary art and creativity.
/ Cultural heritage spaces become exhibition spaces, different from the white gallery cubes of the city's gallery spaces.
/ We reduce visual noise and create a calm atmosphere. Most events are intimate.
/ Interaction with art that encourages reflection and creativity, allowing to deepen and know oneself through art and culture.
/ Artist residencies and exhibitions allow contemporary artists to create and connect with cultural heritage and local people. An opportunity for a different experience, the experience of living and creating in cultural heritage sites, the silence of nature, the distance from the urban.
/ Cultural events involve residents and visitors. Together we build stories that strengthen local identity. Through artists, we involve them in active artistic processes. This is how community artworks, social installations are created. They provide continuous education, communication, exchange of experiences, and the opportunity to get involved.
/ A space of open dialogue, where different generations and social groups intermingle.
The project goes beyond the renovation of space - it becomes a cultural meeting point where heritage preservation is combined with creativity and community life.
/ The restoration of existing heritage buildings respects traditional architectural features, respecting the aesthetic values of the past and using natural materials.
/ Harmony with nature - art installations in the outdoor spaces of heritage sites follow the characteristics of the landscape.
/ Contemporary artistic elements - installations and interventions add dynamism and creativity to the space. Opportunity for visitors to encounter contemporary art and creativity.
/ Cultural heritage spaces become exhibition spaces, different from the white gallery cubes of the city's gallery spaces.
/ We reduce visual noise and create a calm atmosphere. Most events are intimate.
/ Interaction with art that encourages reflection and creativity, allowing to deepen and know oneself through art and culture.
/ Artist residencies and exhibitions allow contemporary artists to create and connect with cultural heritage and local people. An opportunity for a different experience, the experience of living and creating in cultural heritage sites, the silence of nature, the distance from the urban.
/ Cultural events involve residents and visitors. Together we build stories that strengthen local identity. Through artists, we involve them in active artistic processes. This is how community artworks, social installations are created. They provide continuous education, communication, exchange of experiences, and the opportunity to get involved.
/ A space of open dialogue, where different generations and social groups intermingle.
The House on the Hill project focuses on the inclusion of all social groups, ensuring affordability and participatory management. In doing so, it not only reduces social disparities, but actively promotes community participation, equality and new forms of social models.
/ Connecting art with local identity - Contemporary art builds a connective story with local people through cultural heritage and new approaches to community making. Locals are a key link in the creation of the artwork, accompanied by the artist who responds to the contribution of the participants.
/ Programmes for all generations - workshops for children and adults, activities for the elderly, volunteering for youth and others.
/ Free events/programmes - guided tours and talks, opening events, workshops, concerts, other gatherings - funded through public and private sources to enable broad accessibility, as there are significant economic, wealth and standard of living disparities.
/ Option of voluntary contribution, where visitors themselves determine the level of contribution.
/ Participation of vulnerable groups - (single-parent families, emigrant groups, elderly people from retirement homes and families of non-Slovenian nationality) in the implementation of programmes and workshops.
/ Participatory processes - open principles where the community (local residents, owners, artists and professionals) co-design content and programmes.
/ Volunteering and co-creation - involving the local population in restoration, management, and event organization. Our goal is to involve as many locals as possible. From preparing the exhibition spaces, serving, bringing treats for the service...
/ Partnerships with local organizations from different sectors - locals, public institutions, non-governmental organizations, businesses. The initiative operates on the principles of co-creation. Decisions are made democratically, transparently, with an emphasis on the common good.
/ Connecting art with local identity - Contemporary art builds a connective story with local people through cultural heritage and new approaches to community making. Locals are a key link in the creation of the artwork, accompanied by the artist who responds to the contribution of the participants.
/ Programmes for all generations - workshops for children and adults, activities for the elderly, volunteering for youth and others.
/ Free events/programmes - guided tours and talks, opening events, workshops, concerts, other gatherings - funded through public and private sources to enable broad accessibility, as there are significant economic, wealth and standard of living disparities.
/ Option of voluntary contribution, where visitors themselves determine the level of contribution.
/ Participation of vulnerable groups - (single-parent families, emigrant groups, elderly people from retirement homes and families of non-Slovenian nationality) in the implementation of programmes and workshops.
/ Participatory processes - open principles where the community (local residents, owners, artists and professionals) co-design content and programmes.
/ Volunteering and co-creation - involving the local population in restoration, management, and event organization. Our goal is to involve as many locals as possible. From preparing the exhibition spaces, serving, bringing treats for the service...
/ Partnerships with local organizations from different sectors - locals, public institutions, non-governmental organizations, businesses. The initiative operates on the principles of co-creation. Decisions are made democratically, transparently, with an emphasis on the common good.
/ Local Residents and the Local Community:
Local residents are key stakeholders in the process of co-creating content and activities at the House on the Hill. They participate in the restoration of cultural heritage, the organization of events, the design and implementation of programs. Involving local residents ensures that the initiative reflects the specific needs and desires of the local community, while also strengthening the sense of belonging and responsibility for cultural heritage and the community.
/ Wider Public:
The initiative is also open to the wider public, who are involved in various activities such as exhibitions, workshops, art installations, educational programs. This ensures the accessibility of the programs to different age groups, interest groups, and visitors who wish to participate in cultural and artistic creation.
/ Experts and Cultural Workers:
The initiative also involves experts such as architects, artists, cultural workers, educators, researchers, who contribute to the quality of the programs, the restoration of heritage, and the creation of new artistic content. The collaboration of experts ensures that the House on the Hill meets the highest professional standards and develops innovative approaches to integrating art and culture into everyday life.
/ Impact of this Involvement on the Initiative:
The involvement of citizens, local residents, and civil society in the House on the Hill has a significant impact on the success and sustainability of the initiative. Active participation ensures that the initiative becomes more tailored to the needs of the community, leading to greater support and engagement. Co-creating the program increases the quality of activities and mutual connections within the community. Involving the wider public and experts also allows the House on the Hill to become an important space for the exchange of knowledge, creativity, and innovation, contributing to the long-term sustainability of the initiative.
Local residents are key stakeholders in the process of co-creating content and activities at the House on the Hill. They participate in the restoration of cultural heritage, the organization of events, the design and implementation of programs. Involving local residents ensures that the initiative reflects the specific needs and desires of the local community, while also strengthening the sense of belonging and responsibility for cultural heritage and the community.
/ Wider Public:
The initiative is also open to the wider public, who are involved in various activities such as exhibitions, workshops, art installations, educational programs. This ensures the accessibility of the programs to different age groups, interest groups, and visitors who wish to participate in cultural and artistic creation.
/ Experts and Cultural Workers:
The initiative also involves experts such as architects, artists, cultural workers, educators, researchers, who contribute to the quality of the programs, the restoration of heritage, and the creation of new artistic content. The collaboration of experts ensures that the House on the Hill meets the highest professional standards and develops innovative approaches to integrating art and culture into everyday life.
/ Impact of this Involvement on the Initiative:
The involvement of citizens, local residents, and civil society in the House on the Hill has a significant impact on the success and sustainability of the initiative. Active participation ensures that the initiative becomes more tailored to the needs of the community, leading to greater support and engagement. Co-creating the program increases the quality of activities and mutual connections within the community. Involving the wider public and experts also allows the House on the Hill to become an important space for the exchange of knowledge, creativity, and innovation, contributing to the long-term sustainability of the initiative.
At the local level, the initiative connects residents, cultural heritage managers, non-governmental organizations, artists, craftsmen, architects, schools, kindergartens and retirement homes. In addition to co-creating the space, it opens up new opportunities for them in terms of creation, education and networking. Local craftsmen gain greater visibility, while schools and kindergartens, through their participation, strengthen educational content and intergenerational connections.
At the regional level, we cooperate with the Development Agency LAS for the City and the Village and partners from other municipalities. We contribute to the realization of development strategies and strengthen cooperation between municipalities, which enables connection with related initiatives. We are involved in the Strategy of the Ljubljana Urban Region as the legacy of the candidacy of the City of Ljubljana for the European Capital of Culture.
At the national level, we strive to obtain institutional support. More and more students from the Academy of Fine Arts and the Faculty of Architecture are involved in our programs. The Urban Planning Institute of the Republic of Slovenia has included the House on the Hill in its research on the content of New Activities dedicated to public spaces in small and remote places. Our program is increasingly interesting to galleries and organizations connected with innovative content, in order to present our activities.
At the European level, we have participated in the EU project Smoties (Creative Europe), which was led in Slovenia by the Urban Planning Institute of the Republic of Slovenia. For several years, we have been participating in projects such as the European Heritage Days, the Cultural Heritage Week and the European Archaeology Days with various programs. Artists from different countries come to us. Due to the program, we are also increasingly connecting with art institutions and groups from the EU and beyond.
At the regional level, we cooperate with the Development Agency LAS for the City and the Village and partners from other municipalities. We contribute to the realization of development strategies and strengthen cooperation between municipalities, which enables connection with related initiatives. We are involved in the Strategy of the Ljubljana Urban Region as the legacy of the candidacy of the City of Ljubljana for the European Capital of Culture.
At the national level, we strive to obtain institutional support. More and more students from the Academy of Fine Arts and the Faculty of Architecture are involved in our programs. The Urban Planning Institute of the Republic of Slovenia has included the House on the Hill in its research on the content of New Activities dedicated to public spaces in small and remote places. Our program is increasingly interesting to galleries and organizations connected with innovative content, in order to present our activities.
At the European level, we have participated in the EU project Smoties (Creative Europe), which was led in Slovenia by the Urban Planning Institute of the Republic of Slovenia. For several years, we have been participating in projects such as the European Heritage Days, the Cultural Heritage Week and the European Archaeology Days with various programs. Artists from different countries come to us. Due to the program, we are also increasingly connecting with art institutions and groups from the EU and beyond.
Cultural Heritage and Architecture: Architects and conservators have taken into account conservation standards and sustainable use of space in the renovation of the buildings, with the participation of architecture students. Ecologists have contributed to the selection of materials and restoration methods with minimal environmental impact, while also enabling long-term sustainable use of the spaces. Thus, the spaces maintain their authenticity while also enabling contemporary cultural events.
We actively involve artists, curators and cultural managers who design and implement various art projects, exhibitions, workshops and other cultural activities. Artistic contributions are key to revitalizing the cultural space, while also being designed to involve local residents, artists and experts from other fields, enabling the enrichment of the cultural landscape.
Social and Community Aspects: The initiative promotes accessibility and inclusion of vulnerable groups (elderly from retirement homes, children, migrants), in which we collaborate with experts in social inclusion, educators and psychologists from the participating groups. Together, we design programs that transform the House on the Hill into a space of connection and creation.
Education and Research: An important part of the initiative are educational activities, including workshops, educational programs and research projects. Collaboration with universities and research institutions, such as the Urban Planning Institute, enables research in the field of cultural heritage, sustainable development and urban planning, contributing to a broader understanding of the importance of cultural spaces.
Economy and Entrepreneurship: The initiative also touches on the areas of management, tourism, economy and entrepreneurship, as we collaborate with local craftsmen, companies and organizations that contribute to the restoration and preservation of cultural heritage and the provision of sustainable use.
We actively involve artists, curators and cultural managers who design and implement various art projects, exhibitions, workshops and other cultural activities. Artistic contributions are key to revitalizing the cultural space, while also being designed to involve local residents, artists and experts from other fields, enabling the enrichment of the cultural landscape.
Social and Community Aspects: The initiative promotes accessibility and inclusion of vulnerable groups (elderly from retirement homes, children, migrants), in which we collaborate with experts in social inclusion, educators and psychologists from the participating groups. Together, we design programs that transform the House on the Hill into a space of connection and creation.
Education and Research: An important part of the initiative are educational activities, including workshops, educational programs and research projects. Collaboration with universities and research institutions, such as the Urban Planning Institute, enables research in the field of cultural heritage, sustainable development and urban planning, contributing to a broader understanding of the importance of cultural spaces.
Economy and Entrepreneurship: The initiative also touches on the areas of management, tourism, economy and entrepreneurship, as we collaborate with local craftsmen, companies and organizations that contribute to the restoration and preservation of cultural heritage and the provision of sustainable use.
Intertwining of Contemporary Art and Heritage
Instead of classic residencies and exhibitions in white gallery cubes, artists live and create in the countryside, in cultural heritage spaces and in the embrace of nature, which allows them to establish a deep connection with the place, history and community. This approach encourages sustainable art, as it originates from the local context. See the video - artist Mateja Kavčič in residence at Belo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jcYZ2Rwg92Q
We are establishing a network of small cultural centers in remote areas, which enable access to art outside of urban centers. A special part of this concept are the Open Door Galleries - Sanctuaries, which are accessible at any time, without guidance or staff. The Granary in Belo and the cellar of the birthplace of Jakob Aljaž in Zavrh allow visitors to view the exhibitions without time constraints. This is a unique model that combines a natural and cultural experience and offers a space for reflection.
Participatory Model - Co-creation with Residents Residents are not just passive observers, but become co-creators, which allows the project to constantly maintain its freshness. This strengthens social cohesion and a sense of belonging. We are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to involve people, as we believe that active participation is the key to sustainable connection and growth.
Sustainable Renovation of Cultural Heritage The renovation of the space is not just a conservation project, but an active regeneration of heritage through art and sustainable approaches.
Innovative Management Model - Networked Cooperation The project is based on a horizontal management model. This approach goes beyond the hierarchical structures of traditional cultural institutions and allows for greater flexibility and adaptability to the needs of the community.
The House on the Hill is a laboratory for new models of artistic creation, community involvement and sustainable development.
Instead of classic residencies and exhibitions in white gallery cubes, artists live and create in the countryside, in cultural heritage spaces and in the embrace of nature, which allows them to establish a deep connection with the place, history and community. This approach encourages sustainable art, as it originates from the local context. See the video - artist Mateja Kavčič in residence at Belo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jcYZ2Rwg92Q
We are establishing a network of small cultural centers in remote areas, which enable access to art outside of urban centers. A special part of this concept are the Open Door Galleries - Sanctuaries, which are accessible at any time, without guidance or staff. The Granary in Belo and the cellar of the birthplace of Jakob Aljaž in Zavrh allow visitors to view the exhibitions without time constraints. This is a unique model that combines a natural and cultural experience and offers a space for reflection.
Participatory Model - Co-creation with Residents Residents are not just passive observers, but become co-creators, which allows the project to constantly maintain its freshness. This strengthens social cohesion and a sense of belonging. We are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to involve people, as we believe that active participation is the key to sustainable connection and growth.
Sustainable Renovation of Cultural Heritage The renovation of the space is not just a conservation project, but an active regeneration of heritage through art and sustainable approaches.
Innovative Management Model - Networked Cooperation The project is based on a horizontal management model. This approach goes beyond the hierarchical structures of traditional cultural institutions and allows for greater flexibility and adaptability to the needs of the community.
The House on the Hill is a laboratory for new models of artistic creation, community involvement and sustainable development.
At the House on the Hill, we use a systematic approach to researching, planning, and implementing initiatives based on clearly defined goals and methods. This framework includes several key steps:
1. Research: Before starting an initiative, we conduct thorough research on the local environment, cultural heritage, and the needs and desires of the community (through observation, questioning, verification, etc.). We collaborate with various experts, such as architects, conservators, and sociologists, to ensure a comprehensive understanding and direction.
2. Collaborative Planning: Based on the research, we develop comprehensive, sustainable plans that incorporate both cultural and social aspects. In this process, we collaborate with residents, local organizations, and experts from various fields to ensure the alignment of all aspects.
3. Implementation: In implementing the initiative, we focus on practical and innovative solutions that are in line with the research findings and plans. We use modern methods of sustainable restoration, including the preservation of cultural heritage and the introduction of new artistic approaches. We monitor, evaluate, and adjust the implementation as needed.
4. Collaboration, Participation, and Communication: At all stages of the project, we actively involve the local community, residents, and various stakeholders, enabling co-creation and strengthening the sense of belonging. This approach ensures that the initiatives are relevant, creative, and tailored to the needs. We "build" values and "assign" meanings to places and objects.
5. Tools and Methods: We use tools such as participatory workshops, public consultations, roundtables, surveys, and digital platforms for communication and feedback collection, enabling co-creation and co-evaluation. This allows us to monitor progress and adapt tasks in real-time.
1. Research: Before starting an initiative, we conduct thorough research on the local environment, cultural heritage, and the needs and desires of the community (through observation, questioning, verification, etc.). We collaborate with various experts, such as architects, conservators, and sociologists, to ensure a comprehensive understanding and direction.
2. Collaborative Planning: Based on the research, we develop comprehensive, sustainable plans that incorporate both cultural and social aspects. In this process, we collaborate with residents, local organizations, and experts from various fields to ensure the alignment of all aspects.
3. Implementation: In implementing the initiative, we focus on practical and innovative solutions that are in line with the research findings and plans. We use modern methods of sustainable restoration, including the preservation of cultural heritage and the introduction of new artistic approaches. We monitor, evaluate, and adjust the implementation as needed.
4. Collaboration, Participation, and Communication: At all stages of the project, we actively involve the local community, residents, and various stakeholders, enabling co-creation and strengthening the sense of belonging. This approach ensures that the initiatives are relevant, creative, and tailored to the needs. We "build" values and "assign" meanings to places and objects.
5. Tools and Methods: We use tools such as participatory workshops, public consultations, roundtables, surveys, and digital platforms for communication and feedback collection, enabling co-creation and co-evaluation. This allows us to monitor progress and adapt tasks in real-time.
/ A Model Connecting Art and Heritage
Transferability: Artist residencies and exhibitions located in heritage spaces can also be implemented by other communities with untapped heritage.
Application: Small municipalities that want to revive historic buildings with contemporary cultural content. Also useful for dispersed settlements and disconnected communities.
/ Participatory Approach and Community Engagement
Transferability: A method of actively involving residents in co-shaping programs.
Application: Rural communities that want to improve social cohesion through culture.
/ Sustainable Revitalization of Spaces
Transferability: Sustainable renovation of old buildings for specific purposes, establishing new public spaces.
Application: Municipalities and owners of historic buildings seeking sustainable ways to revive their properties.
/ Circular Economy and Local Materials
Transferability: Use of local and recycled materials in renovation and art projects.
Application: Construction and artistic initiatives that want to reduce their environmental footprint.
Innovations in the use of traditional materials with new content (art and creative industries)
/ Learning Programs through Art and Heritage
Transferability: Designing educational programs that promote creativity, sustainable thinking, and historical awareness.
Application: Schools, museums, cultural institutions, and communities that want to combine art and heritage in learning processes.
/ A Model of Mutual Learning and Mentorship
Transferability: Collaboration between artists, researchers, and the local community in mutual learning.
Application: Universities, research centers, and local initiatives that promote interdisciplinary cooperation.
The House on the Hill offers a flexible and sustainable model that can serve as an example for other communities. It can be freely used, combined, and adapted to different environments, needs, and target groups.
Transferability: Artist residencies and exhibitions located in heritage spaces can also be implemented by other communities with untapped heritage.
Application: Small municipalities that want to revive historic buildings with contemporary cultural content. Also useful for dispersed settlements and disconnected communities.
/ Participatory Approach and Community Engagement
Transferability: A method of actively involving residents in co-shaping programs.
Application: Rural communities that want to improve social cohesion through culture.
/ Sustainable Revitalization of Spaces
Transferability: Sustainable renovation of old buildings for specific purposes, establishing new public spaces.
Application: Municipalities and owners of historic buildings seeking sustainable ways to revive their properties.
/ Circular Economy and Local Materials
Transferability: Use of local and recycled materials in renovation and art projects.
Application: Construction and artistic initiatives that want to reduce their environmental footprint.
Innovations in the use of traditional materials with new content (art and creative industries)
/ Learning Programs through Art and Heritage
Transferability: Designing educational programs that promote creativity, sustainable thinking, and historical awareness.
Application: Schools, museums, cultural institutions, and communities that want to combine art and heritage in learning processes.
/ A Model of Mutual Learning and Mentorship
Transferability: Collaboration between artists, researchers, and the local community in mutual learning.
Application: Universities, research centers, and local initiatives that promote interdisciplinary cooperation.
The House on the Hill offers a flexible and sustainable model that can serve as an example for other communities. It can be freely used, combined, and adapted to different environments, needs, and target groups.
The House on the Hill initiative addresses key global challenges with a holistic approach that combines art, sustainability, community connectivity, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
/ Climate Change and Sustainable Resource Use
Global Challenge: Climate change requires innovative sustainable solutions.
Local Solution:
Use of natural and recycled materials - circular economy for art installations and space renovation.
Reducing the carbon footprint by using local resources and eco-friendly construction.
Promoting hiking - the locations are along beautiful walking trails.
/ Spatial Segregation and Lack of Community Spaces
Global Challenge: Rural areas often lack access to cultural, educational, and social activities.
Local Solution:
The House on the Hill serves as a center for art and community engagement, where residents, artists, and visitors come together.
Development of participatory programs that involve the local population and promote social cohesion.
Revitalizing abandoned cultural spaces, which become places of creativity and knowledge exchange.
/ Disappearance of Cultural Heritage and Identity
Global Challenge: Many regions are facing the loss of cultural heritage and traditions.
Local Solution:
Revitalizing cultural heritage with contemporary art and new interpretations of past stories.
Organizing educational workshops on the importance of heritage and sustainable practices.
Collaboration with locals who pass on cultural heritage through oral traditions.
/ Access to Culture and Education
Global Challenge: Lack of access to quality cultural and educational content in rural areas.
Local Solution:
The House on the Hill offers free cultural and artistic events.
Connecting local and international creators to share knowledge and creativity.
Promoting intergenerational knowledge transfer and lifelong learning.
/ Climate Change and Sustainable Resource Use
Global Challenge: Climate change requires innovative sustainable solutions.
Local Solution:
Use of natural and recycled materials - circular economy for art installations and space renovation.
Reducing the carbon footprint by using local resources and eco-friendly construction.
Promoting hiking - the locations are along beautiful walking trails.
/ Spatial Segregation and Lack of Community Spaces
Global Challenge: Rural areas often lack access to cultural, educational, and social activities.
Local Solution:
The House on the Hill serves as a center for art and community engagement, where residents, artists, and visitors come together.
Development of participatory programs that involve the local population and promote social cohesion.
Revitalizing abandoned cultural spaces, which become places of creativity and knowledge exchange.
/ Disappearance of Cultural Heritage and Identity
Global Challenge: Many regions are facing the loss of cultural heritage and traditions.
Local Solution:
Revitalizing cultural heritage with contemporary art and new interpretations of past stories.
Organizing educational workshops on the importance of heritage and sustainable practices.
Collaboration with locals who pass on cultural heritage through oral traditions.
/ Access to Culture and Education
Global Challenge: Lack of access to quality cultural and educational content in rural areas.
Local Solution:
The House on the Hill offers free cultural and artistic events.
Connecting local and international creators to share knowledge and creativity.
Promoting intergenerational knowledge transfer and lifelong learning.
Sustainability: Preserving and Regenerating the Space
/ Sustainable renovation of cultural heritage - using local materials and traditional techniques
/ Nature-friendly solutions - eco-friendly landscape management
/ Support for the circular economy - involving local artisans and artists who use recycled and sustainable materials
Inclusiveness: An Open Space for the Community
/ Co-creation with local residents - events where locals actively participate
/ Accessibility of the program - cultural and educational activities that are free or affordable for all generations
/ Intergenerational connection - involving children, youth, and the elderly in creative workshops and social events
Aesthetics and Quality of Life: The Interplay of Art and Heritage
/ Artist residencies - creating based on a dialogue with the space and local stories
/ Unique exhibition setups - contemporary art placed in spaces of cultural and natural heritage, highlighting their stories
/ Emotional and experiential value of the space - designing spaces that promote well-being, creativity, and a sense of belonging
Planned Steps for Further Development
/ Continuing the renovation of heritage spaces
/ Developing educational programs with a focus on youth and expertise; sustainable design, architecture, and art
/ Increasing accessibility (new paths, adapted access for the mobility-impaired, inclusive programming)
/ Joining European networks of cultural and sustainable initiatives (partnerships with other NEB projects)
/ Developing a knowledge transfer model
/ Expanding international artist residencies and sustainable funding with European resources
/ Developing a self-sustaining ecosystem where culture, sustainability, and community coexist in harmony
/ Strengthening the co-management model between artists, residents, and the professional community for long-term sustainability
/ Sustainable renovation of cultural heritage - using local materials and traditional techniques
/ Nature-friendly solutions - eco-friendly landscape management
/ Support for the circular economy - involving local artisans and artists who use recycled and sustainable materials
Inclusiveness: An Open Space for the Community
/ Co-creation with local residents - events where locals actively participate
/ Accessibility of the program - cultural and educational activities that are free or affordable for all generations
/ Intergenerational connection - involving children, youth, and the elderly in creative workshops and social events
Aesthetics and Quality of Life: The Interplay of Art and Heritage
/ Artist residencies - creating based on a dialogue with the space and local stories
/ Unique exhibition setups - contemporary art placed in spaces of cultural and natural heritage, highlighting their stories
/ Emotional and experiential value of the space - designing spaces that promote well-being, creativity, and a sense of belonging
Planned Steps for Further Development
/ Continuing the renovation of heritage spaces
/ Developing educational programs with a focus on youth and expertise; sustainable design, architecture, and art
/ Increasing accessibility (new paths, adapted access for the mobility-impaired, inclusive programming)
/ Joining European networks of cultural and sustainable initiatives (partnerships with other NEB projects)
/ Developing a knowledge transfer model
/ Expanding international artist residencies and sustainable funding with European resources
/ Developing a self-sustaining ecosystem where culture, sustainability, and community coexist in harmony
/ Strengthening the co-management model between artists, residents, and the professional community for long-term sustainability
