Mirador Slow Studio
Basic information
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Project Description
Mirador Slow Studio aims to create a complex experience and educational service that simultaneously focuses on the importance of sustainability, personal- and social well-being, and (re)connection to nature. In the group sessions through involvement of art therapy practises participants can create design products using materials only from sustainable sources. The studio is located in a wonderful, inclusive countryside environment, where the sessions take place in a meditative manner.
Geographical Scope
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Urban or rural issues
Physical or other transformations
EU Programme or fund
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Description of the project
Summary
The concept is based on four pillars: arts & crafts and design, personal and social well-being, sustainability, and the promotion of conscious living by reestablishing our connection with nature. One of the main aspects is the rural location, which plays an important role in strengthening the relationship between the individual and nature, providing participants with a meditative environment in which they can immerse themselves in the beauty of the landscape and the sounds of the wilderness.
The original location of executing the idea is in the small town of Nagymaros, near Budapest Hungary, where a formerly abandoned wooden house that had already been renovated will be given a new role by being re-purposed as a special design studio. The concept combines the joy of creation with a therapeutic approach, the use of sustainable materials, zero waste techniques, and the experience of slowing down from the metropolitan rush, all in a small, inclusive, homely educational space.
The themes of the design workshops are based on various branches of applied arts and traditional handicraft techniques, such as leather art, yarn and textile art, as well as metal-smithing, for each of which the basic criterion is the sourcing of materials from a sustainable, ethical origin. The maximum number of participants on a session is 6-8 people, which is an appropriate number for group art therapy and provides a great atmosphere for those involved. The process of creation is a liberating, relaxing experience in itself, and the items made in the workshops have a repercussion on their creator, enhancing ecological, mental and spiritual awareness.
The studio can thus become a meeting point and experience centre of connections, where professionals help individuals bringing their creativity alive through special design courses to develop one's self, experience diversity, learn from perspectives and gain insight into a conscious, more natural way of living.
Key objectives for sustainability
Eco-conscious and ethical, close-to-nature lifestyle are among the most important aspects of the studio’s creed. Our goal is to introduce visitors to ancient techniques and materials while raising awareness of the environmental and ethical destruction caused by the industrial production which has taken the main role from the handicraft/sustainable nature of these professions especially in recent decades.
In addition to the courses' educational approach the project's green attitude is also manifested in the conscious choice and sourcing of materials from companies inside the European Union using traditional and innovative technologies, which have advocated environmental-friendly production mechanisms such as the development of technologies to reduce ecological damage, recycling or sustainable production and the optimised and energy-efficient manufacturing of finished products from raw materials.
To obtain some of the supplies for specific courses, participants will also be taken to the nearby riverside and forests to collect ingredients for the items that will be implemented during the workshops. The goal is not only to source the materials from a sustainable origin but to develop and use techniques that are also ecologically friendly - such as the usage of water-based excipients and paints, and zero waste/circular methods. Some examples of the materials used in the studio are: vegetable tanned leather, hemp fabric, copper, old ceramics, recycled cotton yarn, driftwood, plant leaves and organic food waste.
The path to a more conscious lifestyle approach can also be achieved by giving meaning to the articles. Research shows that people are less likely to get rid of objects which they have formed a sentimental attachment with. This is especially true when that certain object have been created by them, since they also associate the time and experience invested in the given thing and it perfectly reflects their personal taste.
Key objectives for aesthetics and quality
The aim of the project is to create an interdisciplinar experience studio of creative, educational and recreational activities, that take place in harmony with its unique environment. The inviting, homely garden and clean design interior of the small-scale wooden house where the programmes are being hosted is an essential part of the idea as well as the soothing scenery which integrates the visitor into the countryside atmosphere.
The workshops designed to take place in a sophisticated, direct and personal manner. As the end result the sessions will be remembered not only as a creative activity, but as an all-pervading positive experience, therefore it may have a more profound effect on each individual. The courses are implemented in a slow living approach, so it is important that the dynamics of the workshops also reflect this viewpoint. In light of this, participants are not time-bound, they have one full day to complete the objects of their choice. The size of the groups also serves the purpose of giving and receiving the same amount and quality of attention during the day and provides an opportunity to develop an all-encompassing deeper connection.
The process of art therapy gain meaning not only through the creative process and personal connection, but also through designing and crafting with the given artistic techniques that also contribute to the high level of a complex experience. The role of the items are also essential regarding the quality of the project, as they fully meet the requirements of eco-crafting, design and current trends, both in terms of the used materials, workmanship, and the end result. Combining traditional design techniques with new aspects, unique and sustainable objects can be completed - with the help of professionals - what will become an eternal piece of the lives of their creators. Next to everyday art therapy sessions eco-art therapy methods give a chance to each individual to reunite with nature in a whole new way.
Key objectives for inclusion
An important consideration when choosing the location was that the studio should take place in a rural setting. There are several key aspects to this perspective in terms of inclusion. Many small towns and villages are in lack of versatile programmes especially in the colder seasons. The studio's goal is to provide people living in the countryside with high quality free time activities - on reasonable prices - that does not require them to travel to the cities. An interactive place for locals with thematic programmes that are suitable for families, children, elderlies, groups of friends and anyone who is open to learn new, creative things or just want to have a fun, relaxing day. We also aim to build an art community by bringing together local artists and artisans providing them with a workspace and meeting point where they can share their knowledge and ideas in the possibility of future cooperations and art projects.
It is also among the intentions of the studio to invite the residents of the city and people in general into nature with a unique programme that could not be executed in an urban environment. Reintegrating the individual into a calmer, slower way of living through the shared language and love of nature and arts can be an attitude-shaping experience for those who are mostly isolated from the outdoors and creative activities in their everyday life. The overall goal is not only to provide people with unique therapeutic design courses, but also to create a place where they have the opportunity to make new connections, even friendships in an age of social alienation.
Our other important mission - in addition to community building - is to work with organisations that support disadvantaged youth. Through the workshops they will have the chance to look into practicing self-awareness, get inspired to choose careers and learn about the basic disciplines of sustainability.
Physical or other transformations
Innovative character
The love of arts and nature, and the intention to reduce our ecological footprint on Earth gave birth to a concept that unites all endeavours of the New European Bauhaus within a complex, educational experience.: The sustainable, aesthetic and inclusive nature of the project emerges as a perfect trio in the concept of Mirador Slow Studio. Our goal is to make our world a more liveable place by achieving the integrity of the individual with interdisciplinary methods. We believe that as one becomes more aware, accepting, and balanced, our society and our relationship with nature can take a more positive turn.
The eye-opening, creative and enjoyable courses of Mirador - which are arranged in an idyllic setting for the above purposes - can be a starting point of realisation for many of our interconnectedness to the natural world. Through this special concept of educational experience programmes people can gain insight into the world of sustainable materials, techniques and viewpoints, get to know a slower approach of life, and - most importantly - have a chance to connect with themselves, others and the natural habitat in an absolutely unique way.
'We need a new discipline that sees the needs of the planet and the person as a continuum and that can help us reconnect with the truth that lies in our communion with the rest of creation.' - Theodore Roszak
