Make Art Great Again

In February 2025, the coastal town of Peniche, Portugal, became a hub of creativity as young people from Hungary, Lithuania, Portugal, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic gathered for “Make Art Great Again”, an Erasmus+ youth exchange. But this wasn’t just an art retreat—it was about using creativity to tackle big societal issues like misinformation, populism, and inclusion.

The exchange was a mix of deep discussions and hands-on artistic exploration. Participants reflected on how art can challenge narratives, encourage critical thinking, and bring communities together.

But rather than just talking about it, they put their ideas into action, experimenting with painting, graffiti, photography, drawing,…etc. Everyone, regardless of experience, had the chance to express themselves, learn from others, and step outside their comfort zones.

One of the highlights of the program was the creation of several murals at the local youth centre in Peniche, in collaboration with Associação Juvenil de Peniche, inspired by the creative brainstorming the participants took part in beforehand. It wasn’t just about adding color to a wall—it was about leaving a lasting message, something the community could connect with and enjoy long after the exchange ended. Working together, the participants turned their artistic skills into a powerful form of storytelling and made a huge impact on the local community. The walls create a more fun and vibrant environment for the children to grow up in.

As the program came to a close, there was time to reflect on everything they had learned—not just about art, but about themselves, teamwork, social responsibility, and the impact of creativity. The final day was filled with celebrations, laughter, and the exchange of Youthpass certificates, marking the end of an unforgettable experience.

Make Art Great Again proved that art is more than just aesthetics—it’s a tool for change, a way to spark conversations, and a bridge between people and ideas. And for those who took part, Peniche will always be the place where they saw that in action.