How did this grant contribute to the realization of your project in regard to artistic exchange, local cultural development and/or the promotion of cultural diversity?

I have prepared a research paper related to my PhD and presented at the Living Cities, Liveable Spaces: Placemaking & Identity Conference in Valletta. This grant has covered my travel expenses and made possible to share the findings of my PhD research with the participants of the conference at the Future Cities pannel.

How does exchange, networking and international contacts contribute to the development of your artistic and cultural project?

My project is related to the urban space which is developing under the effects of behavioral change. The perception of space is different in the era of mobile communication technologies than before. During the conference I have learned about various public interventions/public art projects that are conducted in different countries. I have learned how artistic works affects the quality of urban space and also urban public life. In order to enhance the quality of urban public space it was very crucial to see the results and the learnings of these academic experiences.

Can you elaborate on the learning and knowledge you have gained and shared throughout this experience?

The conference was trying to elaborate the factors behind acquisition of livable cities and livable spaces. The attenders of the conference presented their own projects which are conducted in different countries. Throughout this conference, successful and unsuccessful sides of each project are experienced. The presentations showed that how cultural differences are crucial to choose the best methods to develop action plans in order to achieve livable places in cities.