EVENTS

The 8th Workshop entitled “Public Health, Art and Solidarity“, organized by the MSc Public Health and the Laboratory of Hygiene of the Department of Medicine, in collaboration with the Laboratory of Stage Acting and Speech of the Department of Theatre Studies of the University of Patras, took place on Monday, December 2, 2024, with great success and particular interest.

The event, which took place at the Conference and Cultural Centre of the University of Patras, attracted students, health professionals, artists and representatives of civil society.

A Journey in Public Health, Art and Solidarity

Coordinated by the Professor of Hygiene of the Department of Medicine of the University of Patras, Mr. Apostolos Vantarakis, the workshop focused on the connection between public health and art and solidarity, offering a unique platform for the exchange of ideas and experiences. Participants had the opportunity to attend scientific presentations, interactive discussions, as well as an excellent artistic performance.

The first session, entitled “Public Health and Solidarity”, highlighted the importance of solidarity and effective health policies in supporting vulnerable populations, promoting vaccination and promoting mental health. The presentations by Mr. Apostolos Veizis, Mr. Agis Terzidis and Mr. Nikos Gionakis, who were honoured for their valuable contribution to Public Health, attracted a great deal of interest and provided food for thought and tools for action.

In the second session, entitled “Sport, Art and Solidarity”, the discussion focused on stories of inclusion and artistic approaches that highlight the importance of acceptance and diversity.

The conference culminated with the contemporary dance performance “Dancing (fancy)” by the Contemporary Dance Group Proschima, which impressed the audience with its performance and choreographic sensitivity. The performance offered the audience a unique experience, focusing on the multiple aspects of the human body, acceptance and diversity.

With the choreographic supervision of Maria Koliopoulou and the excellent performances of K. Avramopoulou, K. Gevetzi and L. Papadakis, the play highlighted how art can illuminate the characteristics that are not always considered “acceptable” in public space and on stage. Through dynamic movements, sensitive narratives and impressive choreographic compositions, “Dancing (fancy)” invited the audience to redefine the notion of beauty, diversity and inclusion.