Children and young people’s opportunities for creative expression vary depending on where they live, their parents’ education level, and their family’s financial situation. Much of the culture offered to young people is created by adults, making them consumers rather than creative drivers. Young cultural practitioners in rural areas often feel isolated and struggle to find new contacts for inspiration and collaboration—despite research showing that creative expression improves cognitive abilities and mental health.
With this project, Riksförbundet Unga Musikanter (RUM) aims to address the challenge of limited opportunities for creative expression among youth in rural areas. By offering activities and long-term solutions centered on creativity, RUM seeks to spark interest and create opportunities for children and young people to actively engage in and produce culture themselves
What’s happening in the project?
The project will organize activities rooted in creativity for children and young people aged 6 to 25, while establishing long-term cultural and creative spaces in rural areas of Dalarna, Gästrikland, Hälsingland, and Härjedalen.
• Hosting holiday meet-ups and weekend workshops where participants can explore different creative forms, often led by young leaders
• Forming associations together with children and young people who wish to continue creative activities in their free time
• Providing ongoing support to these associations so they can operate sustainably and continue offering creative opportunities in the future
Why was the project granted support?
Access to culture and leisure activities for children and young people is unevenly distributed across the country. By offering activities and long-term solutions, RUM aims to reduce these inequalities over time.
