Fôlego

About this project

<p>Fôlego project was needed to address the challenges of climate change awareness and cultural engagement in low-density municipalities in Portugal, where access to artistic and educational resources is often limited. These regions face issues such as environmental degradation, lack of community cohesion, and limited opportunities for creative expression, which the project aimed to tackle through cultural and artistic initiatives.</p> <p>Fôlego addressed these challenges by implementing a diverse programme of artistic activities, including cinema, dance, music, poetry, and theatre, held in unconventional venues like libraries, schools, and public squares. The project also involved participatory art processes and training sessions to empower local communities. Key outputs included 62 artistic productions, 100 public presentations, and two digital publications: the Manual of Best Practices and the Sustainable Business Manual, which provide guidance on climate action and creative entrepreneurship.</p> <p>The project planned to achieve increased public engagement with climate change themes, stronger inter-municipal collaboration, and enhanced cultural participation in underserved areas. It exceeded expectations, attracting 6.810 participants—36% above forecasts—and fostering partnerships with international entities like the University of Iceland and Norwegian choreographer Heidi Rustgaard.</p> <p>The primary beneficiaries were residents of low-density municipalities, including students, artists, and local entrepreneurs, who gained access to cultural activities, skills training, and networking opportunities. By involving communities in artistic and environmental dialogues, Fôlego aimed to inspire long-term behavioural change and sustainable development, leaving a legacy of heightened environmental consciousness and cultural vitality in the region.</p>

Bilateral cooperation results

The bilateral partnerships with the University of Iceland and Norwegian choreographer Heidi Rustgaard significantly enriched the Fôlego project’s outcomes by introducing international expertise, innovative methodologies, and cross-cultural perspectives. These collaborations elevated the project’s artistic and environmental dimensions, fostering knowledge exchange and broadening its impact. The University of Iceland contributed through residencies, conferences, and research, creating a platform for Portuguese and Icelandic artists and academics to explore shared climate challenges like desertification and melting ice. This partnership also amplified the project’s global visibility, with Fôlego featured at events such as the UN COP in Egypt and UNESCO conferences. Norwegian choreographer Heidi Rustgaard’s involvement brought hands-on artistic innovation, particularly through the Fest en Fest Festival, where students used burned wood to create performances addressing climate change. This collaboration not only enhanced the project’s creative output but also empowered local youth with activist approaches to environmental issues. Key bilateral results included the co-creation of the Manual of Best Practices, which integrated international insights, and the establishment of lasting professional networks. The project plans to sustain these partnerships, with ongoing discussions for future collaborations, ensuring the continued exchange of ideas and practices beyond the project’s formal conclusion. These bilateral ties not only strengthened Fôlego’s immediate outcomes but also laid the foundation for long-term international cooperation in culture and sustainability.

Project partners

• University of Iceland Donor project partner· Iceland
• H2Dance Donor project partner· Norway
• Mação Municipality Project partner· Portugal
• Oleiras Municipality Project partner· Portugal
• Proença-a-Nova Municipality Project partner· Portugal
• Sertâ Municipality Project partner· Portugal
• Vila de Rei Municipality Project partner· Portugal
• Ideas Map Project partner· Portugal