When Art Connects a Community
Šolta, Croatia – October 2025
A ten-day artistic journey has just concluded on the island of Šolta, part of the Functional Urban Area of Šolta–Split, leaving behind not only a striking community installation but also an enduring sense of connection and purpose in the Framework of the OTRart project – Overview Through Rubbish & Art
At the heart of the residency was Colombian artist Julia María López Mesa, who, in collaboration with local artist Milica Krstulović, guided an inspiring artistic process that invited the participation of local residents, families, and volunteers. Together, they gave form to a collective artwork built from reused and repurposed materials – a visual and emotional reflection on connection, transformation, and renewal.
Over the course of ten days, the atmosphere on Šolta was vibrant with creativity. The rhythmic hum of a restored sewing machine became the residency’s heartbeat, interwoven with children’s laughter and the soft murmur of shared stories. People of all ages joined in, contributing objects, fabrics, and ideas. The resulting artwork stood as a symbol of togetherness – proof that art can transcend language, age, and background, bringing people closer through a shared creative purpose.
Art as a Catalyst for Change
The OTRart residency is part of a broader transnational project funded by the Creative Europe programme. Its mission: to address environmental challenges through the transformative power of art. Across its partner locations, OTRart fosters artistic residencies that turn waste into beauty, sparking dialogue on sustainability and environmental responsibility.
The residency was jointly organized by OTRart Project, the Hrvatska udruga za turizam i ruralni razvoj “Klub članova Selo”, and Déchets D’arts, in close collaboration with the Šolta Tourist Board and the local community. Each partner contributed expertise, materials, and local support that allowed the residency to thrive both artistically and socially.
Workshops, open studio sessions, and informal gatherings helped to bridge the gap between professional artists and residents, creating a lasting dialogue that continues even after the residency’s conclusion.
💬 Everything around us holds potential for renewal when we look at it with imagination, care, and love.
This simple yet profound message encapsulates the essence of OTRart and the spirit that defined the Šolta residency , a belief that transformation begins when we choose to see the world differently.
Co-funded by the European Union.
Views and opinions expressed are those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.