Art project Leicht - Licht - Bunt combines creativity and community in Burgenland

Art project Leicht - Licht - Bunt combines creativity and community in Burgenland

In Eisenstadt, the state of Burgenland has initiated an inspiring art project in collaboration with the pro mente association. This project was presented on Thursday in the State Gallery and is entitled “Light – Light – Colorful”. It offers pro mente's clients the opportunity to work creatively under the guidance of talented Burgenland artists. The works of art created during a year-long series of workshops have now been presented to the public.

Leonhard Schneemann, the state councilor for social affairs, explained that the project aims to give participants a space in which they can express their thoughts, feelings and wishes in a creative form. “We are setting an example that creative exchange can break down barriers,” continues Schneemann. This initiative underlines the importance of art as a unifying element in society.

Support for creative people in Burgenland

The state of Burgenland actively promotes the art and culture scene. For this purpose, a service point for artists was set up to provide support on specialist issues such as labor law and tax law. Part of the cultural package is an office for artist-in-residence projects, which serves as a platform for international exchange. In addition, a new scholarship with funding of 12,000 euros was launched to enable innovative projects.

The government is implementing a variety of measures to support creative people in the region. These include programs such as the “cultural voucher”, work scholarships and increasing prize money. In 2023, the state will provide an additional two million euros to strengthen the cultural landscape. These funds also serve to cushion the impact of price increases and open access to cultural centers for local art.

Pro mente Burgenland: A commitment to mentally ill people

Pro mente Burgenland is a non-profit association that has been committed to helping mentally ill and psychosocially disadvantaged people and their relatives since it was founded in 2000. The association offers a comprehensive range of housing and care for mentally ill adults and operates several facilities in Burgenland, including in Kohfidisch, Lackenbach, Mattersburg and Zurndorf. Around 100 employees currently look after around 210 clients.

This initiative not only shows the creativity of those involved, but also demonstrates the commitment of the state and the pro mente association to the municipal art and cultural landscape. The opening was an impressive example of how art can bring people together and what positive effects this can have on individual well-being. More information about the project is available here to find.