Project description:
The Skovoroda Project is a cultural and educational initiative taking place in Wrocław, co-financed by the Minister of Culture and National Heritage as part of the “Cultural Education 2025” program. The project is inspired by the legacy of Hryhorii Skovoroda — a philosopher, poet, and composer who bridged academic and folk worlds, transcending the boundaries of language, music, and reflection.
In the spirit of his work, the project offers workshops across three cultural dimensions: word, music, and philosophy. The program is open to Wrocław residents — both those with migration experience and members of the local community — and is designed to be intergenerational and intercultural. Participants of all ages and backgrounds come together to learn, create, and grow. The culmination of the project will be Skovoroda Fest 2025, a public festival showcasing the results of the collective efforts and promoting creativity, dialogue, lifelong learning, and cultural understanding.
Project goal:
The project aims to foster social integration and the development of participants’ competencies by creating a shared space for dialogue, learning, and collaboration through cultural and educational workshops for the residents of Wrocław. It promotes intergenerational and intercultural bonds, counters social exclusion, and supports the idea of lifelong learning. A key element is the celebration of Hryhorii Skovoroda as a symbol of understanding, openness, and wandering wisdom.
Key activities:
1. LinguaFest – language & culture workshops for adults
LinguaFest is a series of 10 unique workshops that combine language learning with cultural exploration. No prior knowledge of foreign languages is required – all you need is openness and a curiosity for discovering new perspectives. Each of the two participant groups will dive into the fascinating world of alphabets, basic language structures, and cultural contexts. We’ll explore topics related to phonetics, morphology, and intercultural communication.
During the workshops, participants will:
- discover unique alphabets such as Arabic, Georgian, Hindi, Serbian, and Japanese;
- learn basic phrases and interesting linguistic facts;
- take part in culinary workshops featuring dishes from around the world;
- engage in conversations about culture and meet people from different parts of the globe.
The workshops are designed for beginners and are open to all adults, regardless of gender, nationality, religion, or previous language experience.
2. Skovoroda Sound music workshops
Skovoroda Sound is a series of 10 workshops designed for people from different generations – teenagers aged 16 and up, adults, and seniors. No stage experience or singing skills are required – all you need is willingness, openness, and curiosity.
During the workshops, participants will:
- work with breath and body awareness;
- learn the basics of voice emission and relaxation techniques;
- explore how to use their voice consciously in singing and everyday communication.
We will turn to traditional Slavic songs, which will become a starting point for learning group singing, harmony, and the art of listening to one another.
The workshops will offer a space for discovering the power of the human voice – without pressure, with respect for each participant’s pace and abilities.
3. Philosophy workshops
Unique educational sessions created for children aged 8–10 and their parents or guardians. These workshops introduce children to philosophical thinking through games, interactive activities, and shared reflection. Participants develop critical thinking skills, learn to ask questions and explore answers, and discover diverse perspectives in an environment of curiosity, respect, and dialogue.
4. Word, Music, and Philosophy at SkovorodaFest 2025
The project’s outcomes will be presented at Skovoroda Fest — the annual August event organized by Foundation Ukraine. It will be an opportunity to present the outcomes of the workshops and enrich the festival with elements of the three cultural domains. Visitors can take part in an outdoor philosophical game that encourages interaction and exploration. Music workshop participants will perform in a joint concert, and language and poetry enthusiasts will be invited to join a poetry slam and creative language sessions.
Expected outcomes:
For participants:
- Development of language, musical, and cognitive skills.
- Increased self-confidence and motivation to pursue further learning.
- Formation of intergenerational and intercultural relationships.
- Reduction of social exclusion through active cultural participation.
- Greater awareness of cultural heritage and the life of Hryhorii Skovoroda.
For the local community:
- Strengthened social cohesion and empathetic attitudes.
- Creation of a shared space for dialogue, creativity, and learning.
- Integration of residents with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
For cultural institutions and the sector:
- Promotion of modern, inclusive models of cultural education.
- Expansion of cultural offerings for diverse social groups.
- Enhanced cross-sector collaboration in support of community development.
The Skovoroda Project is implemented with financial support from the Minister of Culture and National Heritage, funded by the Culture Promotion Fund — a state special-purpose fund.
