The evolution of STAR: From social inclusion to Empowerment through Street art 

The Original STAR Project

The initial STAR (STreet ARt) initiative was a two-year, EU-funded project conducted between 2019 and 2022, focusing on promoting social inclusion through street art across 14 European countries, including the Netherlands. Organized by ALDA and the Municipality of Arcugnano (Italy), the project used street art to revitalize neglected urban spaces and actively engage young people. Through international events in Italy, Portugal, Kosovo, and the Netherlands, the STAR program demonstrated that street art is a powerful tool for fostering social inclusion.

One notable success was the "Power of Street Art" exchange program, which brought together students from the Comenius Lyceum in Amsterdam and their counterparts from Latvia. Supported by the Erasmus+ program, this initiative enabled participants to break down cultural barriers, inspire one another, and connect through street art.

Looking Ahead: STAR 2.0

Building on the achievements of STAR, the consortium has launched STAR 2.0 - Street Art for the Future, an innovative project aimed at empowering youth workers by leveraging street art as a medium for inclusion. Within the framework of Erasmus+, this expanded initiative involves four countries and has developed a comprehensive toolkit featuring practical methods and strategies to engage youth from diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds. Whether through murals or graffiti, STAR 2.0 employs street art to break down barriers, promote social cohesion, and actively involve young people in their communities.

The project offers a creative solution to social inclusion while refining educational best practices through international collaboration. Through this effort, street art has evolved into a powerful catalyst for change across Europe. 

The Path Toward a More Inclusive Urban Ecosystem

STAR 2.0 - Street Art for the Future is more than a project about youth work or graffiti techniques; it is a visionary step toward a more inclusive urban ecosystem. This toolkit empowers youth workers while fostering creativity and social inclusion. Simultaneously, it addresses critical challenges such as inequality, poverty, and marginalization.

The toolkit has the potential to evolve into a resource for anyone working with vulnerable groups, promoting inclusion and connecting communities with broader society.

This initiative also paves the way for new opportunities. Mobility grants can stimulate the exchange of knowledge between cities, enabling cross-border collaborations. By expanding its target groups to include, for example, seniors and children, STAR 2.0 can further strengthen community bonds and make urban spaces more inclusive for all.

STAR 2.0 is not merely about art—it is about how we approach our cities and one another. It creates spaces where creativity fosters connection, and inclusion flourishes, irrespective of age, background, or circumstances. This is the first step toward a future where the city becomes a canvas for empowerment and social change, extending far beyond the confines of a gallery.

Below is a proud introduction of the STAR 2.0 partners:

EPMA – Czech Republic

The European Project Management Association (EPMA) is dedicated to fostering international cooperation among European regions. Its activities include research, advocacy, project management, and networking, aimed at strengthening dialogue between governments, research institutions, businesses, and civil society organizations. As the project leader of STAR 2.0, EPMA emphasizes the transformative impact of positive approaches like street art on the lives of young people.

"We joined STAR 2.0 to experience how a positive approach through street art can transform the lives of young people."

SAMA – The Netherlands

The Street Art Museum Amsterdam (SAMA) curates, documents, and presents a unique collection of over 300 street art pieces. SAMA aims to foster equality, empowerment, and social innovation through street art, enhancing the development and quality of life within local communities. As the street art expert in STAR 2.0, SAMA brings its extensive experience and knowledge to the program.

"SAMA joined STAR to learn from and share expertise with other European cities on how to make the impact of street art visible and actionable."



Municipality of Reggio Emilia – Italy

The Comune di Reggio Emilia, the local government authority of Reggio Emilia, focuses on the sustainable development of its region through diverse cultural, mobility, social cohesion, and environmental initiatives. For STAR 2.0, it is responsible for developing the educational curriculum, ensuring that the best practices and relationships fostered by the STAR project are sustained and expanded.

"We are involved to ensure that the best practices and connections cultivated through STAR continue to thrive."