Srcem i rukama do novih vještina! With heart and hands to new skills!
Škola primijenjene umjetnosti i dizajna Osijek, Croatia x ACPELIA NGO, Cyprus
Agreement No: 2024-1-HR01-KA122-VET-000226215
With Heart and Hands to New Skills!
Erasmus+ Student Mobility Program in Cyprus
ACPELIA is proud to host the Erasmus+ transnational mobility project, "With Heart and Hands to New Skills!", in collaboration with Škola primijenjene umjetnosti i dizajna Osijek from Croatia. This initiative, co-funded by the European Social Fund under Erasmus+ (Project No. 2024-1-HR01-KA122-VET-000226215), is designed to provide young students with a transformative learning experience by combining art, culture, and innovation in a dynamic and inspiring environment.
Empowering Students Through Creativity and Cultural Exchange
From February 16 to March 2, 2025, students will embark on a unique educational journey in Cyprus, engaging in an array of interactive workshops, artistic activities, and hands-on training. This mobility experience aims to enhance creative competencies, promote cultural awareness, and develop practical skills that will contribute to their personal and professional growth.
What Makes This Program Special?
✔ Hands-on Artistic Training – Students will collaborate with local artists and educators, participating in art therapy sessions, creative workshops, and digital design activities.✔ Exploring Cypriot Heritage – Through guided cultural excursions in Pissouri, Limassol, and Paphos, students will discover the rich history, traditional crafts, and artistic traditions of Cyprus.✔ Intercultural Learning & Exchange – Working alongside local students and teachers, participants will exchange ideas, collaborate on projects, and experience Cyprus’ vibrant artistic and cultural scene.✔ Sustainability & Innovation – The program integrates environmental awareness, digital skills, and modern artistic methods, fostering a forward-thinking approach to creativity.
A Journey of Growth and Inspiration
Throughout the two-week program, students will have the opportunity to:📌 Engage in interactive workshops on traditional and modern artistic techniques.📌 Learn from expert educators and professionals in the fields of visual arts, design, and craftsmanship.📌 Experience cultural immersion through visits to archaeological sites, museums, and local creative hubs.📌 Develop teamwork and leadership skills through collaborative projects and group activities.📌 Participate in social and recreational events, including outdoor activities, creative challenges, and cultural celebrations.
This Erasmus+ mobility project is more than just an educational experience—it's an opportunity for students to unlock their artistic potential, embrace cultural diversity, and gain invaluable life skills.
Daily Timetable of the activity
Arrival Day - Sunday 16 February 2025
The first day of the project! After arriving to Hylatio Tourist village, the accommodation, eating lunch and having a quick rest and eager to explore, participants took a trip to the town square of Pissouri. Divided into two teams, the croatian students took part in a treasure hunt, using it to learn all about the village, wether is its history, notable landmarks and more.
Below you can find the photos taken as part of the students’ treasure hunt
Day 1 - Monday 17 February 2025
On day 1 of the project, participants departed at 8:30 am to Agiou Antoniou High school. Implemented by teacher Olympia Orphanidou, participants learned about traditional designs on differently crafted boxes.
Using the art room, participants were given different tools, such as paint, scissors, acrylic paint and more to create and color then our such boxes. Focused on World Cancer Day (4 February) the boxes participants colored will be sold and all proceeds will be donated for cancer releif.
At 1:00 pm, participants had the chance to visit Limassol MyMall Limassol for some food and shopping.
Day 2 - Tuesday 18 February 2025
On day 2 of the project participants visited yet another school, this time being Polemidia High School. The students made the infamous art teacher Popi Nicolaou, who has received a Global Teacher Award in 2019, considered by some as the “Nobel Prize” of teaching.
The students were given a tour by Cypriot students of the school, and after learning all about the differences and similarities of the school systems of Croatia and Cyprus, the croatian students were given a presentation of all the art based videos and sculptures that Popi, along with students had made in different areas of Cyprus. These included different art pieces based on feminism, human trafficing, sexual abuse and immigration, all issues that plague the world to this day.
The Croatian students, along with the Cypriot students started designing and painting 3 segments of walls in the school, on which they will be working on for the following days to complete.
After this, the students were taken to Limassol center with our amazing public transport system for some traditional Cypriot food and a tour of molos, the old city and the Limassol Castle, which is also simultaneously the Cyprus Medieval Museum. With this, participants learned all about the past of Cyprus, with its wars, and occupations from different groups of people through time.
Day 3 - Wednesday 19 February 2025
On day 3 of the project participants arrived at Polemidia High School eager to continue their wall painting projects. As soon as they stepped into the schoolyard, they were greeted by their new friends. With Popi Nicolaou as their guide, they picked up their paintbrushes and set to work. Popi, known for her inspiring approach to art, moved between the groups, offering advice and encouragement.
Under her guidance, the students experimented with different techniques, mixing colours and refining their designs. The walls came alive with colours, shapes and ideas. The atmosphere was lively throughout the day. Some students focused on perfecting their details, while others shared stories, laughed and even tried to teach each other words from their languages.
In the afternoon, the walls were still unfinished, but the journey of creating together was as important as the final piece. Before they left, Popi gathered everyone together and paired them up - two Croatian students were placed in each Cypriot classroom. This way they would be fully immersed in the school environment during the carnival the next day.
Day 4 - Thursday 20 February 2025
On day 4 of the project, the participants returned to Polemidia High School excited for a day full of energy and celebration. It was the first day of Carnival and the whole school was alive with the sound of music, dancing and delicious food.
The students were divided into different classes, each ready to get into the festivities. Everyone quickly got into the carnival spirit. The highlight of the day was definitely the campfire. Students gathered around the flames, laughing and talking as they cooked Cypriot sausages, grilled halloumi and other traditional dishes on barbecues. Later, they joined in the learning of some traditional Cypriot dances.
At 1:00 pm, the group went out to explore the Limassol carnival. Students step into the vibrant atmosphere, watching lively performers and people in costume as they enjoy the music and festive spirit of Carnival.
Day 5 - Friday 21 February 2025
On the 5th day of the project, the participants left at 8.30 am for Periferiako Lykeio Apostolou Louka Kolossi, where they had activities with the art teachers of the school. Implemented by teachers Chrysi Koumna and Mrina Ellina, participants learned about mosaics while working in groups with cypriot students from the school.
They worked together to design and create their own design, exploring different styles and colour combinations. Guided by teachers, they practised cutting and arranging tiles, applying glue and bringing their artistic ideas to life. As well as gaining hands-on experience, they also learned about the history and importance of mosaics in Cypriot culture, discovering how this traditional art form has been used throughout history.
Later, students and teachers also visited the Human Rights Sculpture Park in Kolossi, which is located in the area of the school.
Day 6 - Saturday 22 February 2025
On the 6th day of the project, the participants set off for Paphos at 10:00 am. Their first stop was Petra tou Romiou, the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, where they took in the sea views while learning about the myths surrounding the site, including the story of the goddess.
They then visited the Tombs of the Kings, an ancient burial ground with underground tombs dating back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods. They gained an insight into its historical significance and admired its magnificent architecture.
The journey continued with a visit to the Paphos mosaics, considered to be some of the finest in the eastern Mediterranean. Walking through the ancient ruins, participants explored the Houses of Dionysus, Theseus, Aion and Orpheus, where they admired intricate mosaic floors depicting vivid scenes from Greek mythology.
To finish the day, the group enjoyed some free time in Limanaki, the port of Paphos, where they were able to walk along the waterfront, relax and take in the vibrant atmosphere of the town.
Day 7 - Sunday 23 February 2025
FREE DAY
Day 8 - Monday 24 February 2025
On the 8th day of the project, the participants took part in the “Artifacts with Sea Pebbles from Pissouri” workshop, where they had the opportunity to create unique works of art using natural sea pebbles collected from the scenic shores of Pissouri. Each person carefully selected and arranged stones of different shapes, sizes and colours to create creative designs ranging from animals and landscapes to abstract patterns. It was the first time they had made art with stones.
Their educator, artist Yioula Demetriou, guided them step by step, demonstrating different ways of arranging the stones and sharing her own artwork for inspiration. They experimented with different techniques such as painting, engraving and assembling pebbles into intricate designs.
The workshop was a fun and relaxing experience that allowed them to express their creativity while connecting with nature. Through this hands-on activity, they not only developed new artistic skills, but also gained a deeper appreciation for the beauty and potential of simple materials like stone.
Day 9 - Tuesday 25 February 2025
Wine and farm day
On the 9th day of the project, participants stayed a bit more local. This time around, they found out about the art of farming and wine of Pissouri’s region. Participants visited Panikos Farm as well as Andreas farm, to see and learn all about the horses they breed, the goats, sheep and chickens they raise! Participants also tried out fresh halloumi, as well as straight-from-the-goat milk. Doesn’t get fresher than that!
The next stop of the day was back to Pissouri square to have a traditional Cypriot snack. This was cypriot coffee, as well as mahalebi, a Cypriot pudding made with water or milk and corn flour, notably rose water is added on top!
The last stop was Theophanous Winery, where participants were given a crash course on how wine was made, using grapes from Pissouri. Participants also learned about the differences between white wine, red wine and red sweet wine.
Day 10 - Wednesday 26 February 2025
The project would not be complete without hiking the blue trail of Pissouri! Guided by Xenia Nikolaou, the students, prepared with sticks, lots of water and comfortable shoes, started from the accommodation, and walked a total of 6 km to see the beautiful sights of Pissouri from up top the rocks.
It was a sight to behold!
Day 11 - Thursday 27 February 2025
Focusing more on the creative and inclusion based art methods of ACPELIA, the students had a visit by facilitator and trainer Erma Georgiou. Using art in different forms, the students did the following
1 - Draw my life - students, setting up a timeline of notable events of their lives, drew a timeline, in whatever way they wished (some as a film reel and others as a lake) of the events of their life that define them.
2 - Blind drawing - getting the students out of their comfort zone, participants were given paint, but were blindfolded and were asked to draw whatever they wished. Students claimed it was so surreal to be part of an activity where they specifically draw just for the feel, instead of to produce something
3 - group based clay making - Participants were given clay, and using their hands and various objects were asked to construct a personal object with the term “freedom”. Going the extra mile, in two groups students, for the first time, had to work together on a group project, where they had to build an object with the term “love”.
Day 12 - Friday 28 February 2025
The day began with a visit to the Ancient Theatre of Kourion, where students and teachers enjoyed learning more about the history and culture of this ancient city.
After Kourion, the group travelled to Lefkara, a village famous for its lace and silverwork. Walking through the narrow streets, they saw local artisans at work and learned about the traditional crafts that have been part of the community for generations. The students had the opportunity to ask questions and see first-hand how these skills are passed down.
The day ended in Limassol, where the students reunited with friends they had met at school. They spent time together, sharing experiences and enjoying the atmosphere of the city.
Day 13 - Saturday 1 March 2025
On the last day of the program, the participants came together to reflect on their experiences in Cyprus. Each group prepared presentations about the places they had visited, the activities they had taken part in and the things they had learned over the two weeks. They shared personal stories, photos and key takeaways from their stay, highlighting how the experience had broadened their perspectives and deepened their understanding of Cypriot culture.
Later, the participants received certificates and presents from our Pissouri Community Council for their participation in the program.
Finally we finished our mobility of the Croatian group with our final party to the restaurant Alektor Grill House in Alektora village with Kleftiko and a lot of wine for our participants and leaders. Thank you Croatian group for your cooperation in our implemented activity.
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