The Impact of the Lisbon Project Summer Art Project
The Lisbon Project’s Summer Art Project is in full swing, and the impact has been profound, thanks to the generous donation of materials by the Royal Talens Foundation. Last month, a debrief meeting with lead Art Therapist Paola Villanueva and her assistant highlighted the project’s success and outlined the next steps.
Joy and freedom
The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Many children have found joy and freedom in expressing themselves through art, significantly enhanced by the high-quality materials provided by Royal Talens. Over two weeks, art playgroups were held for two hours each, involving 25 children from 11 different nationalities. The attached pictures showcase the children actively engaging with the donated materials.
A safe and creative outlet
The Lisbon Project works with migrant and refugee families who often face challenging circumstances. The art sessions have revealed some of the difficult situations these children endure. After eight sessions, it became evident that many of these children have caregivers struggling with economic, social, or adaptive challenges as they integrate into Portuguese society. These challenges can lead to parental burnout, frustration, and even depression.
Recognizing the importance of supporting these children, the Lisbon Project continues to provide a safe and creative outlet for them to express their emotions and experiences through art.
Supported projects
Throughout 2024, the Royal Talens Foundation supported an art program for 158 young people in Cuernavaca, Mexico, run by WereldOuders and their partner organization Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos (NPH) Mexico. For many of these youngsters who have already faced significant difficulties in their young lives, creative expression has become a vital tool for healing and personal growth.
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The Royal Talens Foundation has donated art materials to support a comprehensive two-year community program in Peru. The initiative, run by WereldOuders and their partner organization Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos (NPH) Peru, serves 50 families, including 130 children and 150 young adults living in extremely challenging conditions.
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In March 2025, 72 students from IMC Weekendschool in Amsterdam Noord and Zuidoost embarked on a creative journey exploring the theme “The Future of Amsterdammers.” Over four weeks, these 10- to 11-year-olds immersed themselves in the world of visual arts, guided by four contemporary artists and supported by Royal Talens Foundation materials.
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