My experience on Erasmus + project Youth exchange „A Heart For Art“ in Rijeka, Croatia

My name is Katarina and I come from Osijek, Croatia. I am a young creative person with a strong passion for art, design, and visual expression. My interests include fashion (especially vintage clothing), graphic and web design, photography, and astrology. Creativity is an important part of both my personal and professional life.
I applied for the Erasmus+ youth exchange “A Heart for Art” because I am strongly interested in how different art techniques can be used to boost creativity, self-expression, and the personal development of young people. The project’s focus on exploring various artistic methods and using art as a tool for learning and empowerment was especially relevant to me. I was also motivated by the opportunity to connect creativity with employability skills, such as communication, collaboration, and innovative thinking. I saw the project as a space where art is not only a form of expression, but also a way to develop competencies that are important for young people in their personal and professional lives.

The programme’s approach to using artistic activities as a bridge between youth work, creativity, and social connection was particularly inspiring and aligned with my interests. The most inspiring activities for me were portrait-making workshops and textile printing on T-shirts, as they helped me to explore different artistic techniques in a practical and creative way.

The project helped me develop new friendships and meaningful connections that I will continue to maintain. It also gave me the opportunity to explore Rijeka more deeply, especially its street art scene and cultural spaces. Through museum visits and artistic activities, I gained a new perspective on the city’s history and cultural development. The exchange also highlighted how art can be used as a powerful tool in youth work, encouraging creativity, expression, and intercultural learning among young people.

I will always remember the positive atmosphere, laughter, and creative energy during the workshops. The combination of humour, collaboration and artistic expression made the experience very inspiring and memorable.

Youth exchanges like this are important because they help young people develop confidence, especially in communication and foreign languages. They also encourage self-expression and allow participants to see how others perceive them through creativity, culture, and everyday interaction. Such experiences help build friendships, expand perspectives, and create opportunities to explore new cultures. Most importantly, they support personal growth and self-discovery.

I strongly believe every young person should take part in Erasmus+ opportunities, especially those who feel they lack space for creativity or self-expression in their daily lives. These projects help overcome self-doubt, encourage openness and show that growth happens outside of comfort zones.

Life is full of opportunities — and we should embrace them when they come.
 

Updated on Miðvikudagur, 20/05/2026