Today, an exhibition has been inaugurated at the Sant Gervasi Reception Centre, the result of the Projecte Casa, an innovative artistic programme aimed at empowering individuals in vulnerable situations. This project is the result of collaboration between the Institut Municipal de Serveis Socials, Teatre Lliure, and French artist Mohamed El Khatib. The artistic intervention, which took place from June 9 to 12, involved several artists who worked directly with the centre's users.
An Inclusive and Transformative Approach
During four days, artists Yohanne Lamoulère, Bonnefrite, Elsa Broclain, and Mohamed El Khatib conducted creative workshops that included photography, illustration, and writing. The aim was to create a space where homeless individuals could express themselves and feel like active members of the community. The Commissioner for Social Action at the City Council, Sonia Fuertes, highlighted the importance of culture as a tool to combat social stigma: “People experiencing homelessness have the right to enjoy and create,” she stated.
Through Projecte Casa, safe spaces for artistic creation and social interaction have been generated. This approach not only seeks to produce artistic works but also to foster a sense of belonging among those being accommodated. “Participation in projects like this has a positive effect both for the participants and for society,” Fuertes added.
The project is based on TERMINATO, an experimental format designed by Lamoulère, Bonnefrite, and El Khatib that prioritises adaptation to the social realities of the environment. This flexible methodology allows artists to work from the lived experiences of the participants, thus creating accessible and inclusive artistic forms.
In the context of the Sant Gervasi Reception Centre, this artistic residency has temporarily transformed the space into a vibrant place where dignified and representative narratives emerge. In addition to temporary accommodation for homeless women, the centre provides daily services such as personal hygiene and food for those in need.
As Barcelona continues to develop responses tailored to the specific needs of homeless individuals, it currently has nearly 2,900 temporary places. The city positions itself as a leader in person-centred care, promoting initiatives that foster autonomy and empowerment.
Sonia Fuertes emphasised: “Culture has a transformative power that can catalyse significant changes.”
Through Projecte Casa, it is hoped that open days for the public will continue to be held over the coming months to share these creative experiences with a wider audience. This not only highlights the artistic capabilities of the participants but also invites the entire community to reflect on its role in social inclusion.
As this phase of the artistic project in Sant Gervasi comes to a close, it is clear that initiatives like this are essential not only for providing immediate support but also for building bridges towards a more inclusive society. The current exhibition is just the beginning; its legacy will endure as new creative opportunities continue to emerge within the social sphere.
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