Creative Summer at POUP
This summer, the Open University of Poreč became a meeting place for young people, art and creativity. As part of the Creative Summer at the Open University of Poreč programme, four free creative workshops were held for children and young people aged 11 to 16. Participants had the opportunity to explore different artistic techniques, develop their own ideas and create unique works of art.
The programme began with the “Design Your Own Pencil Case” workshop, led by Leana Štasny Kernjus. From the first sketches and the selection of patterns and colours to the finished products, the participants transformed their ideas into functional and original pencil cases. The creative process was filled with experimentation, enthusiasm and personal expression, while the finished pieces showed just how much imagination can fit into one small object.
The next workshop, “Create Your Own Fashion Piece,” introduced the young designers to the world of fashion and design. Tables covered with materials, sketches and creative mess soon turned into spaces for creating unique garments. The participants cut, sewed and shaped their own creations, transforming their initial ideas into wearable fashion pieces. Each finished work reflected the individuality, creativity and effort invested in its creation.
The programme also featured a cyanotype workshop, an intriguing photographic technique that allowed participants to discover photography from before the digital age. Through the interplay of light and botanical motifs, numerous blue prints were created, while the participants explored the possibilities of this unique technique through experimentation. The workshop took place in a lively and positive atmosphere, and the resulting artworks once again demonstrated the creative possibilities offered by artistic exploration.
The programme concluded with a five-day art workshop, “Deconstructing the Landscape / Landscape and Its Deconstruction,” inspired by the 66th Poreč Annale and the exhibition “(In)stability of the Horizon.” Led by mentor Janis Beletić, the participants began the workshop with a visit to the exhibition at the Istrian Assembly Hall, where, through discussion of contemporary artworks, they explored different ways of observing, experiencing and interpreting art.
During the workshop, they explored colour and line as tools of visual expression, drew emotions and, through tonal and graphic modelling, learned different ways of creating volume, space and atmosphere. Through colour modulation and warm–cool contrasts, they discovered how colour can convey emotion, create mood and shape the way an image is experienced. The landscape served as a starting point for exploring abstract expression and developing a personal artistic language.
The creative journey concluded with a presentation of the participants’ works in the theatre foyer, where Daria, Mariia, Tihana and Veronika presented the results of their work to the public. Their artworks brought together five days of exploration, learning, experimentation and personal artistic expression.
Throughout the Creative Summer at the Open University of Poreč programme, young participants had the opportunity to learn through hands-on experience, discover different artistic techniques and, most importantly, freely develop their own ideas. From design and fashion to experimental photography and contemporary visual art, each workshop created space for making something new and unique.
A big thank you to all the participants, mentors and everyone who helped make this Creative Summer so special!
The Creative Summer at the Open University of Poreč may have come to an end, but the artworks created, experiences shared and new ideas discovered remain as its most beautiful and lasting result.
Creative Summer at the Pučko otvoreno učilište Poreč 2026!
Summer at the Pučko otvoreno učilište Poreč brings a wide range of creative, educational, and fun activities for children and young people. Through diverse workshops and programmes, participants will have the opportunity to explore the world of art, develop their talents, gain new knowledge, and express their imagination in a stimulating and welcoming environment. From visual arts, creative crafts, and design to contemporary content and educational activities – the institution once again becomes a place where creativity, learning, and social connection come together.
We are especially pleased to continue the “School Start” programme, which has been recognised in previous years as valuable support for children preparing for the new school year. Through carefully designed activities, the programme helps pupils step into school challenges with greater confidence, knowledge, and self-assurance.
We invite all interested participants to join us and spend a summer filled with creativity, learning, and new experiences at the Pučko otvoreno učilište Poreč.
From Sketch to Final Stitch – Make a Pencil Case of Your Own Design!
For children aged 11–16
Instructor: Leana Štasny Kernjus
Through drawing, painting, printing, embroidery, and sewing, this workshop offers participants the opportunity to go through the full creative process and shape an entirely original product.
The workshop encourages free expression, experimentation with materials, and the development of design skills, with an emphasis on sustainability and material reuse.
Come and create a pencil case designed entirely by you!
REGISTRATION
A Fashion Piece with Your Personal Signature!
Garment-making workshop
For children aged 11–16
Instructor: Leana Štasny Kernjus
A creative workshop where participants develop their own fashion piece from idea to finished product, carrying their personal signature. Through collage work, textiles, and various materials, we will explore colours, shapes, and textures, learning how an original garment is created from an initial sketch.
No prior experience is required—only a desire to create!
REGISTRATION
Cyanotype Workshop – Photography Before the Digital Era!
For children aged 11–16
Instructor: Janis Beletić
Participants will discover the magic of one of the oldest photographic techniques and create their own prints using the power of the sun!
In this cyanotype workshop, we will explore the process of creating blue-and-white prints using natural materials – plants, leaves, and various textures from the environment. Through a simple yet magical light-exposure process, unique artworks are created for each participant to take home.
No prior experience is required—only a love of photography!
REGISTRATION
Romantic Melancholy of the Horizon: Deconstruction of Landscape – Art Workshop Inspired by the 66th Poreč Annale 66th Edition
For children aged 11–16
Instructor: Janis Beletić
How can colour and line convey emotions, moods, and a personal experience of the world around us? In this art workshop, inspired by the theme of the 66th Poreč Annale 66th Edition, participants will explore the landscape motif and its different interpretations – from recognisable natural scenes to abstract artistic compositions.
Through learning about different artistic movements and painting techniques, participants will discover the symbolic and psychological power of colour and line, using them as fundamental elements of visual expression. The workshop encourages creativity, the development of personal artistic expression, critical thinking, and free experimentation in the artistic process.
REGISTRATION
Creative Summer for Children and Youth at the Poreč Public Open University – free workshops!
In 2024:
Creative Summer brought together children and youth at the Poreč Public Open University
This year, the Poreč Public Open University offered a diverse summer programme of free workshops and courses for children and young people, providing opportunities for learning, creative expression, and developing new skills. The workshops attracted many young talents, and here is what we achieved:
The workshop “Create a Key Spot!” was held on Tuesday, 2 July. Children aged 8 to 13, guided by Sanja Jakus, created imaginative key holders, keychains, and medal stands. This creative workshop helped strengthen children’s sense of achievement, confidence, focus, and patience.
In the portrait drawing course attended by participants aged 12 to 18, the technique of pencil portrait drawing was refined under the guidance of Anita Pilat, M.A. in Fine Arts. This course was intended for advanced participants, and over four sessions, they developed their artistic skills and creativity.
The art workshop using the papier-mâché technique gathered children aged 12 to 18 who created a large relief inspired by the theme of the 64th Annale, “Long Live Animals! …and what would animals say about us?” led by Valter Černeka, M.A. The workshop included a visit to the exhibition, theme analysis, and artistic interpretations that now adorn the foyer of the Poreč Public Open University.
The crochet workshop, held on 17 and 18 July, brought together children aged 10 to 18, who learned basic crochet techniques. Led by Alen Bosanac, the workshop aimed to teach a somewhat forgotten technique and encourage creativity, confidence, patience, and focus.
Thank you to all participants, instructors, and everyone involved in Creative Summer! We look forward to future projects and new workshops we are preparing for August.
head
Ana Čehić Anić
Tel.: +385 52 887 216
e-mail: obrazovanje@poup.hr
administrator
Sanja Jakus
Tel.: +385 52 887 216
e-mail: sanja.jakus@poup.hr