TrashArt continues: the techniques of the project in schools
The completion of a European project does not mean the end of its actions. The techniques developed in the context of TrashArt continued to be applied by Visit Agiasos in educational activities with students, transferring the knowledge of the project to younger generations.
From the international laboratory to the educational practice
At the international workshop “Weaving with Upcycled Materials” (Agiasos, May 17–18, 2025), participants learned about chair knitting and basket weaving techniques with reusable fabrics. This methodology was then used in two educational activities with students.
June 2025: students from New York
On June 4, 2025, on the occasion of World Environment Day, Visit Agiasos welcomed a group of students of Avenues: The World School from New York. Under the guidance of zero-waste artist Gioula Koutsoumbou, the students were introduced to the art of chair knitting. Worn chairs that had been collected from the village cafes were re-knitted with second-use fabrics and returned to use. More than 20 students participated in the action.
October 2025: the Junior High School of Ippeio
On October 15, 2025, the same methodology was transferred to more than 20 students of the Ippeio High School. The students worked with worn-out jeans and other second-hand fabrics, turning old chairs into functional objects with a new identity.
A small exchange of culture and environmental sensitivity
In both actions, the technique served as an occasion for something broader: the discussion about fabric waste, the lifespan of objects and the value of repair versus replacement. At the same time, the students came into contact with a traditional technique of Lesvos that is rare today.
These actions were not part of the recorded activities of the project, but their natural continuation: the application of the acquired knowledge in local educational practice.
National recognition
The chairs created through these actions were chosen by Marketing Greece – the non-profit tourism promotion organization founded by SETE and the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels – as the central image of the tribute to Visit Agiasos on the “Good Tourism Stories” platform. (https://www.kalesistoriestourismou.gr/article/visit-agiasos)
Project No.: 2024-1-LV01-KA210-VET-000244372
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or The State Education Development Agency (VIAA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority (VIAA) can be held responsible for them.
