Skip to main content

Diversity Enriches

Art unites and moves people, offering ways of expressing oneself to those who struggle with everyday activities. Individuals with disabilities from five different counties of Southern Estonia present beautiful and colourful creations – their art of survival.

Story

For people with disabilities, the art of survival is a daily reality. This is especially true for three counties (Võru, Põlva, and Valga counties) that participate in the events of the European Capital of Culture, as they are sparsely populated border areas where accessibility to everyone and everything is a challenge. The purpose of working together is to show the broader community that despite obstacles, people are resourceful. Despite the limitations imposed by their uniqueness, they engage in what they love. In addition, their creations offer aesthetic pleasure and peace of mind to others!

Experience

Five different Chambers of People with Disabilities in five distinct counties – Valga, Võru, Põlva, Tartu, and Viljandi – showcase the skills, knowledge, and abilities of their people through various activities and creations. The opportunity to be together, think, and work collaboratively has become increasingly valuable. These arts of survival are the knowledge, skills, and values that help people with disabilities contribute even more to society and cope better with their uniqueness in everyday life.

From February to May 2024, local cultural events will take place in each county involved, where the handiworks of members from each chamber are showcased, accompanied by a concert. Each event will have its central theme related to important occurrences or holidays in Estonia – such as International Women’s Day, Easter, or Europe Day.

Festivalil esinevad puuetega inimeste kollektiivid üle Eesti, lisaks saab imetleda ja osta kunstiloomingut viiest kaasatud Lõuna-Eesti maakonnast ning elada kaasa moeetendusele, kus esitletakse omavalmistatud rõivaid. Uksed on avatud kõigile soovijatele!

The program culminates with the 28th People with Disabilities Culture Festival in Estonia, which takes place in June at the Vanemuine Concert Hall in Tartu. The festival features performances by collectives of disabled individuals from all over Estonia. Additionally, attendees can admire and purchase artworks from the five participating South Estonian counties, and enjoy a fashion show of homemade garments. The event is open to all who wish to attend!

Impact

The inclusion of disabled individuals in society and cultural life will increase, along with collaboration among them. Their creations showcase their resourcefulness and arts of survival to both local and European audiences.

epikoda.ee/kultuurifestival2024