Prioritising the places and people that need it the most
"I see, hear, feel art"
"I see, hear, feel art" - social inclusion programs in Slavonski Brod for people with disabilities
The project proposal is aimed at promoting equal opportunities for people with disabilities, who in
their daily lives constantly face discrimination and a disadvantageous position in relation to other
participants in society. Project activities are designed with the aim of ensuring conditions and
opportunities for the inclusion of as many people with disabilities as possible in cultural activities.
their daily lives constantly face discrimination and a disadvantageous position in relation to other
participants in society. Project activities are designed with the aim of ensuring conditions and
opportunities for the inclusion of as many people with disabilities as possible in cultural activities.
Croatia
Local
Slavonski Brod
Mainly urban
It refers to other types of transformations (soft investment)
Yes
2023-02-15
Yes
ESF : European Social Fund
No
No
As a representative of an organisation
The project proposal is aimed at promoting equal opportunities for people with disabilities, who in
their daily lives constantly face discrimination and a disadvantageous position in relation to other
participants in society. Project activities are designed with the aim of ensuring conditions and
opportunities for the inclusion of as many people with disabilities as possible in cultural activities.
Furthermore, the project contributes to the accessibility of the object in which the project
activities are carried out by setting up an orientation plan in Braille, creating replicas that enable
the experience of art for blind people by touch, an interactive museum guide with audio and video
content based on a digital QR code and printing the guide in Braille letter and enlarged letters,
thereby enabling visually impaired people to be informed about the exhibits, layout and contents
of the Gallery, which will promote the active inclusion of people with disabilities in cultural and
social life. During the duration of the project, cultural and integration contents of recitals and 3D-
shows, workshops/exercises of art and theater education were created for blind and deaf people.
During workshops attended by people with disabilities, more frequent breaks were organized
keeping in mind their capabilities and needs. Considering all the above, it is evident that the entire
project promotes equal opportunities and non-discrimination of persons with disabilities.
their daily lives constantly face discrimination and a disadvantageous position in relation to other
participants in society. Project activities are designed with the aim of ensuring conditions and
opportunities for the inclusion of as many people with disabilities as possible in cultural activities.
Furthermore, the project contributes to the accessibility of the object in which the project
activities are carried out by setting up an orientation plan in Braille, creating replicas that enable
the experience of art for blind people by touch, an interactive museum guide with audio and video
content based on a digital QR code and printing the guide in Braille letter and enlarged letters,
thereby enabling visually impaired people to be informed about the exhibits, layout and contents
of the Gallery, which will promote the active inclusion of people with disabilities in cultural and
social life. During the duration of the project, cultural and integration contents of recitals and 3D-
shows, workshops/exercises of art and theater education were created for blind and deaf people.
During workshops attended by people with disabilities, more frequent breaks were organized
keeping in mind their capabilities and needs. Considering all the above, it is evident that the entire
project promotes equal opportunities and non-discrimination of persons with disabilities.
equal opportunities
cultural and integration contents
non-discrimination
art and theater education
active inclusion of people with disabilities in art
The project fulfills two goals of the European Union's cohesion policy: Europe with a more
prominent social component—implementation of the European pillar of social rights and Europe
closer to citizens—sustainable and integrated development of urban, rural and coastal areas
through local initiatives.
The project proposal is aimed at promoting equal opportunities for people with disabilities, who in
their daily lives constantly face discrimination and a disadvantageous position in relation to other
participants in society. Project activities are designed with the aim of ensuring conditions and
opportunities for the inclusion of as many people with disabilities as possible in cultural activities.
In the planned project activities, two associations are included whose members are people with
disabilities and are representatives of vulnerable groups who know first-hand the needs,
possibilities and interests of people with disabilities. Furthermore, the project contributes to the
accessibility of the building where the project activities are carried out.
prominent social component—implementation of the European pillar of social rights and Europe
closer to citizens—sustainable and integrated development of urban, rural and coastal areas
through local initiatives.
The project proposal is aimed at promoting equal opportunities for people with disabilities, who in
their daily lives constantly face discrimination and a disadvantageous position in relation to other
participants in society. Project activities are designed with the aim of ensuring conditions and
opportunities for the inclusion of as many people with disabilities as possible in cultural activities.
In the planned project activities, two associations are included whose members are people with
disabilities and are representatives of vulnerable groups who know first-hand the needs,
possibilities and interests of people with disabilities. Furthermore, the project contributes to the
accessibility of the building where the project activities are carried out.
The project’s key objectives center around fostering equal opportunities for people with disabilities, ensuring their active participation in cultural activities, and addressing societal discrimination that often places them at a disadvantage. The aesthetic and experiential quality of the project has been designed to be inclusive and accessible, reflecting an awareness of the specific needs and preferences of people with disabilities.
Inclusive Design Elements: The project enhances the physical and sensory experience of art through the creation of tactile replicas for blind individuals, enabling them to experience art through touch. Additionally, an interactive museum guide with audio and video content, accessible via QR codes, and guides in Braille and enlarged letters have been implemented. These measures ensure that individuals with visual impairments can navigate the Gallery, interact with exhibits, and engage in cultural content, thus promoting a rich, multi-sensory experience of art.
Accessibility Features: Key improvements such as the Braille orientation plan and the interactive museum guide serve not only to meet the practical needs of people with disabilities but also elevate their experience by making cultural spaces and exhibits fully accessible. This addresses the need for both physical and intellectual accessibility, ensuring that no participant feels excluded.
Cultural Integration and Social Inclusion: The project’s workshops in art and theater for blind and deaf individuals are designed with extra care, including more frequent breaks to accommodate individual needs. This ensures that the participants can fully engage with the content in a way that respects their capabilities, enriching their cultural and social experience.
Impact and Long-term Sustainability: Beyond immediate inclusion, the project sets a lasting example by documenting its activities in a documentary film which showcases the integration of people with disabilities in cult.life.
Inclusive Design Elements: The project enhances the physical and sensory experience of art through the creation of tactile replicas for blind individuals, enabling them to experience art through touch. Additionally, an interactive museum guide with audio and video content, accessible via QR codes, and guides in Braille and enlarged letters have been implemented. These measures ensure that individuals with visual impairments can navigate the Gallery, interact with exhibits, and engage in cultural content, thus promoting a rich, multi-sensory experience of art.
Accessibility Features: Key improvements such as the Braille orientation plan and the interactive museum guide serve not only to meet the practical needs of people with disabilities but also elevate their experience by making cultural spaces and exhibits fully accessible. This addresses the need for both physical and intellectual accessibility, ensuring that no participant feels excluded.
Cultural Integration and Social Inclusion: The project’s workshops in art and theater for blind and deaf individuals are designed with extra care, including more frequent breaks to accommodate individual needs. This ensures that the participants can fully engage with the content in a way that respects their capabilities, enriching their cultural and social experience.
Impact and Long-term Sustainability: Beyond immediate inclusion, the project sets a lasting example by documenting its activities in a documentary film which showcases the integration of people with disabilities in cult.life.
The project is centered around fostering inclusion by addressing multiple dimensions, from accessibility to affordability and the creation of inclusive societal models. The goal is to create opportunities that allow people with disabilities to actively participate in cultural activities, thereby overcoming the societal barriers they often face. Here's how the project aligns with key inclusive objectives:
Key Objectives of the Project in Terms of Inclusion:
Accessibility for All:The project directly addresses the accessibility of both the physical space and the cultural content. By implementing features such as an orientation plan in Braille, tactile art replicas, and interactive audio-visual guides accessible through QR codes, the project ensures that individuals with disabilities, particularly those with visual impairments, can fully engage with and experience the exhibits.
Accessibility tools are also expanded beyond physical infrastructure. The Braille guide and large print materials ensure that people with different levels of visual impairment are able to navigate the space and understand the exhibits, making the cultural experience accessible to a broader audience.
Affordability and Inclusivity:The project provides free and open access to cultural activities, ensuring that people with disabilities, who may face financial or societal barriers, can participate without additional costs. The integration of cultural performances, 3D shows, and workshops for blind and deaf participants further emphasizes the inclusive nature of the activities, as it caters specifically to the needs of these groups.
By providing these opportunities without financial barriers, the project helps to democratize cultural participation, making art and education accessible to those who might otherwise be excluded.
Inclusive Governing and Design Principles:The project’s development has been deeply informed by the input of two associations that represent people with disabilities.
Key Objectives of the Project in Terms of Inclusion:
Accessibility for All:The project directly addresses the accessibility of both the physical space and the cultural content. By implementing features such as an orientation plan in Braille, tactile art replicas, and interactive audio-visual guides accessible through QR codes, the project ensures that individuals with disabilities, particularly those with visual impairments, can fully engage with and experience the exhibits.
Accessibility tools are also expanded beyond physical infrastructure. The Braille guide and large print materials ensure that people with different levels of visual impairment are able to navigate the space and understand the exhibits, making the cultural experience accessible to a broader audience.
Affordability and Inclusivity:The project provides free and open access to cultural activities, ensuring that people with disabilities, who may face financial or societal barriers, can participate without additional costs. The integration of cultural performances, 3D shows, and workshops for blind and deaf participants further emphasizes the inclusive nature of the activities, as it caters specifically to the needs of these groups.
By providing these opportunities without financial barriers, the project helps to democratize cultural participation, making art and education accessible to those who might otherwise be excluded.
Inclusive Governing and Design Principles:The project’s development has been deeply informed by the input of two associations that represent people with disabilities.
The involvement of citizens benefiting from the project, particularly people with disabilities, and civil society organizations, has been central to the project’s development and implementation. Their engagement has ensured the project remains relevant, responsive, and aligned with the needs of those it seeks to serve. Below is an overview of the ways in which these groups have been involved and the impact of their participation:
Citizens' Role and Level of Involvement:
Active Participation in Design and Implementation: Two associations representing people with disabilities were integral to the project. These associations, composed of members who are themselves people with disabilities, played an essential role in shaping the project’s content and structure. Their involvement ensured that the project addressed the real, lived experiences of people with disabilities. They provided valuable insights on the specific needs, preferences, and challenges faced by this community when engaging with cultural spaces, ensuring that the final design was genuinely inclusive and accessible.
Contributing to Cultural Content: Citizens with disabilities were not merely participants but active contributors to the cultural content. Workshops and events, including art and theater education, were developed based on the needs and suggestions of people with disabilities. These individuals shaped the activities, ensuring they were tailored to their capabilities and interests. This co-creation of content fostered a sense of ownership, helping participants feel like valuable members of the cultural community rather than passive recipients.
Providing Feedback: Continuous feedback loops with beneficiaries, including participants from the disability associations, allowed for adjustments during the project’s execution. Citizens with disabilities shared their experiences and suggestions, which were then used to refine the activities and make the space even more inclusive.
Citizens' Role and Level of Involvement:
Active Participation in Design and Implementation: Two associations representing people with disabilities were integral to the project. These associations, composed of members who are themselves people with disabilities, played an essential role in shaping the project’s content and structure. Their involvement ensured that the project addressed the real, lived experiences of people with disabilities. They provided valuable insights on the specific needs, preferences, and challenges faced by this community when engaging with cultural spaces, ensuring that the final design was genuinely inclusive and accessible.
Contributing to Cultural Content: Citizens with disabilities were not merely participants but active contributors to the cultural content. Workshops and events, including art and theater education, were developed based on the needs and suggestions of people with disabilities. These individuals shaped the activities, ensuring they were tailored to their capabilities and interests. This co-creation of content fostered a sense of ownership, helping participants feel like valuable members of the cultural community rather than passive recipients.
Providing Feedback: Continuous feedback loops with beneficiaries, including participants from the disability associations, allowed for adjustments during the project’s execution. Citizens with disabilities shared their experiences and suggestions, which were then used to refine the activities and make the space even more inclusive.
Ensuring Inclusivity and Relevance: The collaboration between civil society organizations and the project team ensured that the project was not just inclusive in theory, but also relevant in practice. The direct involvement of people with disabilities in decision-making processes led to a more authentic understanding of their needs, resulting in a truly accessible space and engaging activities.
Creating a Sustainable and Replicable Model: The active involvement of citizens with disabilities, along with the documentation of their experiences through a documentary film, has allowed the project to serve as an example of best practices. This model is now being shared as a resource for other sectors and initiatives, promoting the integration of inclusive cultural practices elsewhere. The active role of the disability associations in this process has helped build their recognition and credibility, reinforcing the message that inclusive practices are both necessary and feasible in cultural and social settings.
Fostering Social Change: Through this project, civil society has shown that inclusion is not only a legal or social obligation but also a powerful means of enriching cultural life. By actively involving people with disabilities in the creation and execution of cultural activities, the project challenges traditional societal models that often marginalize people with disabilities. It promotes a new societal model where people with disabilities are active contributors, not just recipients, of cultural services. This shift in perception has a long-term impact on how disability is viewed within broader society.
Creating a Sustainable and Replicable Model: The active involvement of citizens with disabilities, along with the documentation of their experiences through a documentary film, has allowed the project to serve as an example of best practices. This model is now being shared as a resource for other sectors and initiatives, promoting the integration of inclusive cultural practices elsewhere. The active role of the disability associations in this process has helped build their recognition and credibility, reinforcing the message that inclusive practices are both necessary and feasible in cultural and social settings.
Fostering Social Change: Through this project, civil society has shown that inclusion is not only a legal or social obligation but also a powerful means of enriching cultural life. By actively involving people with disabilities in the creation and execution of cultural activities, the project challenges traditional societal models that often marginalize people with disabilities. It promotes a new societal model where people with disabilities are active contributors, not just recipients, of cultural services. This shift in perception has a long-term impact on how disability is viewed within broader society.
The design and implementation of the project involved multiple disciplines and knowledge fields, ensuring a holistic and comprehensive approach to accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities. The collaboration between experts from diverse fields allowed for the creation of a well-rounded, effective project that addressed both the technical and social aspects of accessibility. Disability Studies and Social Inclusion:
Role: Experts in disability studies and social inclusion played a central role in ensuring that the project was genuinely responsive to the needs of people with disabilities. They provided insight into the specific barriers faced by individuals with various disabilities, from physical access to cultural activities to social exclusion.
Interaction: These experts worked closely with representatives from disability associations, ensuring that the project’s design was rooted in lived experiences and directly addressed the challenges faced by people with disabilities in cultural spaces.
Added Value: Their input was essential in making the project a truly inclusive initiative, ensuring that the activities and infrastructure were not just accessible but also meaningful for the participants. Technology and Digital Accessibility:
Role: Specialists in technology and digital accessibility were involved in creating the interactive museum guide, the QR codes with audio and video content, and the digital Braille materials. They were also responsible for integrating accessibility features such as audio descriptions and tactile feedback systems.
Interaction: The technology experts collaborated with the disability studies team to ensure that the digital tools met the specific needs of people with visual and auditory impairments.
Added Value: The integration of technology with physical accessibility allowed for more engaging experience for people with disabilities, offering them a way to engage with the exhibits through multiple sensory channels.
Role: Experts in disability studies and social inclusion played a central role in ensuring that the project was genuinely responsive to the needs of people with disabilities. They provided insight into the specific barriers faced by individuals with various disabilities, from physical access to cultural activities to social exclusion.
Interaction: These experts worked closely with representatives from disability associations, ensuring that the project’s design was rooted in lived experiences and directly addressed the challenges faced by people with disabilities in cultural spaces.
Added Value: Their input was essential in making the project a truly inclusive initiative, ensuring that the activities and infrastructure were not just accessible but also meaningful for the participants. Technology and Digital Accessibility:
Role: Specialists in technology and digital accessibility were involved in creating the interactive museum guide, the QR codes with audio and video content, and the digital Braille materials. They were also responsible for integrating accessibility features such as audio descriptions and tactile feedback systems.
Interaction: The technology experts collaborated with the disability studies team to ensure that the digital tools met the specific needs of people with visual and auditory impairments.
Added Value: The integration of technology with physical accessibility allowed for more engaging experience for people with disabilities, offering them a way to engage with the exhibits through multiple sensory channels.
The innovative character of this project lies in its comprehensive, inclusive, and sustainable approach, which goes beyond the typical accessibility measures seen in mainstream projects. It combines physical, digital, and social solutions in a way that promotes active participation and engagement of people with disabilities in the cultural sphere. The integration of multi-sensory tools, inclusive programming, and a collaborative design process, along with the focus on affordability and long-term impact, distinguishes this project as a forward-thinking, replicable model for future cultural initiatives aimed at true inclusion.the project’s design and outcomes serve as a model for other initiatives across Europe, aligning with the goals of the European Union’s cohesion policy. By showing how an integrated and accessible cultural model can be achieved, the project sets a precedent for cultural and social integration. It demonstrates how cultural projects can be designed from the outset to be genuinely inclusive, not just through physical accessibility but also through programming, governance, and sustainability.Affordability is a key aspect that sets the project apart from many other initiatives. It ensures free access to cultural activities, which are often priced out of reach for people with disabilities due to financial constraints. By removing financial barriers, the project democratizes access to culture, ensuring that people with disabilities can participate fully without additional costs—a key aspect that is not always prioritized in mainstream cultural projects.The project also fosters long-term sustainability by building partnerships with public and nonprofit sectors, ensuring that the positive impacts continue beyond the project’s lifetime. Another innovative aspect is the creation of a documentary film showcasing the project’s development and the active involvement of people with disabilities. This film serves as an educational tool and best practice model.
The project’s methodology was shaped by the principles of inclusion, participation, and collaboration, focusing on creating an environment where people with disabilities are not just recipients of cultural content, but active contributors to the cultural landscape. By prioritizing accessibility across multiple dimensions—physical, digital, and experiential—and ensuring ongoing collaboration with people with disabilities and a wide range of professional disciplines, the project adopted a holistic and adaptive approach to ensure that it meets the needs of the community while fostering long-term sustainability and impact. This methodology not only addresses immediate barriers but also serves as a model for future inclusive cultural initiatives. The methodology used in this project is rooted in inclusive design principles that prioritize accessibility, active participation, and long-term impact. The approach integrates collaborative, user-centered design with multi-disciplinary expertise to ensure that people with disabilities are not just passive recipients of cultural content, but active participants in both the creation and consumption of cultural experiences. Below is a detailed description of the methodology: User-Centered, Participatory Approach, Involvement of People with Disabilities, Co-Creation of Cultural Content, Inclusive Design for Accessibility, Multisensory and Digital Accessibility, Physical and Environmental Accessibility, Tailored Program Design and Flexibility, Adjustments for Different Abilities, Culturally Relevant and Inclusive Programming, Collaboration Across Disciplines (Multi-disciplinary Team: The project involved professionals from various disciplines, including artists, educators, designers, architects, and accessibility experts. This diverse team worked together to create an environment that is not only physically accessible but also enriching from an educational and cultural perspective), Continuous Consultation with Disability Associat.
The project’s focus on inclusive design, accessibility, and participation offers several elements that can be replicated or transferred to other contexts. By integrating digital and physical accessibility features, flexible programming, stakeholder engagement, and capacity building, the project provides a comprehensive, adaptable model for fostering cultural inclusion for people with disabilities. Whether in other cultural institutions, educational contexts, or public spaces, the project’s methodology and outcomes can serve as a blueprint for replication and scaling, ensuring that more people with disabilities can access and participate in cultural life across the globe. The project has several elements that could be replicated or transferred to other locations, groups of beneficiaries, and contexts, ensuring broader impact and the scalability of its inclusive approach. Below are the key elements of the project that can be adapted or transferred: Inclusive Design Methodology, Accessibility Tools and Technology, Flexible Programming and Workshops, Collaborative Governance and Stakeholder Engagement, Impact Documentation and Knowledge Sharing, Sustainability and Scalability. The success of this project shows that its methods can be replicated in any setting that aims to increase access to culture and education for marginalized groups. This model could be scaled up or adapted for use in a variety of regions, especially in rural or underserved communities where disability services might be limited.
In addressing these global challenges, the project offers localized, scalable solutions that can be adapted to other regions, groups, and contexts. By tackling issues such as social exclusion, accessibility, cultural engagement, and integration, it creates a model of inclusive cultural programming that can be replicated to enhance the lives of people with disabilities worldwide, fostering greater social cohesion and cultural inclusion. The project addresses several global challenges by providing localized solutions that emphasize accessibility, inclusion, and social integration for people with disabilities. Below are the key global challenges the project tackles: Social Exclusion and Discrimination of People with Disabilities, Lack of Accessibility in Cultural Institutions, Limited Representation and Participation of Disabled Individuals in Public Life, Barriers to Education and Cultural Engagement, Sustainability and Replication of Inclusive Models, Accessibility of Public Services and Infrastructure, Cultural Rights and Equal Access to Cultural Heritage, Integration of Vulnerable Groups into Society, Inadequate Representation in the Arts and Cultural Sectors
The project has achieved significant results, outcomes, and impacts that align with its goal of promoting equal opportunities for people with disabilities, particularly in the cultural and social spheres. Below is a detailed overview of the results, outcomes, and impacts of the project:Empowerment and Active Participation of People with Disabilities:
Result: The project facilitated the active participation of people with disabilities in workshops, art exhibitions, theater performances, and cultural activities. This was achieved through tailored events such as 3D shows, recitals, and theater workshops specifically designed for blind and deaf participants.
Impact: People with disabilities were not passive recipients of cultural content; they were active contributors, creators, and participants. The workshops were adapted to meet the needs of individuals with different disabilities, ensuring that everyone could participate meaningfully. This empowerment has led to increased self-esteem and a sense of belonging among participants.
Indirect Benefit: Caregivers, families, and communities benefited from witnessing the active inclusion and contributions of people with disabilities, helping to break down societal stigmas and promote greater empathy and understanding.
Increased Awareness and Positive Social Change:
Result: The project raised awareness about the importance of accessibility, inclusion, and equal rights for people with disabilities. Through its public events and media coverage, the project highlighted the need for cultural institutions to be more inclusive.
Impact: The project has fostered a shift in how society views people with disabilities, moving from a charitable view to one that sees them as equal and active participants in society. This change in perception can lead to more inclusive policies and programs in the future.
Indirect Benefit: By involving a broad range of community members, the project sparked conversations about disability rights.
Result: The project facilitated the active participation of people with disabilities in workshops, art exhibitions, theater performances, and cultural activities. This was achieved through tailored events such as 3D shows, recitals, and theater workshops specifically designed for blind and deaf participants.
Impact: People with disabilities were not passive recipients of cultural content; they were active contributors, creators, and participants. The workshops were adapted to meet the needs of individuals with different disabilities, ensuring that everyone could participate meaningfully. This empowerment has led to increased self-esteem and a sense of belonging among participants.
Indirect Benefit: Caregivers, families, and communities benefited from witnessing the active inclusion and contributions of people with disabilities, helping to break down societal stigmas and promote greater empathy and understanding.
Increased Awareness and Positive Social Change:
Result: The project raised awareness about the importance of accessibility, inclusion, and equal rights for people with disabilities. Through its public events and media coverage, the project highlighted the need for cultural institutions to be more inclusive.
Impact: The project has fostered a shift in how society views people with disabilities, moving from a charitable view to one that sees them as equal and active participants in society. This change in perception can lead to more inclusive policies and programs in the future.
Indirect Benefit: By involving a broad range of community members, the project sparked conversations about disability rights.
