European Projects

A European project for social integration through the artistic co-operation of Deaf artists in the performing arts sector, actively involving them from creation to the dissemination and circulation of works in partner countries. Conceived by Fattoria Vittadini (Italy) in partnership with organisations in Croatia and Portugal, the project promotes encounters between Sign Language communities in the European Union, creating opportunities for art and culture to support the social and cultural development of people, including often excluded minorities.

The project focuses on promoting theatre performed by native Sign Language artists, encouraging transnational mobility, artistic co-operation and access to high-quality professional opportunities. Through artistic residencies, transnational masterclasses and training activities, artists and cultural managers strengthen their skills and explore new expressive languages based on body expression and Sign Language, creating artistic codes that are understandable to audiences with or without prior knowledge of Sign Language.

BEYOND SIGNS promotes the active public participation, with a special focus on children and young people, raising awareness to Deaf culture and Sign Languages and encouraging a broader and more inclusive perception of art. The results include the production of shows and videos presented at festivals such as the Edinburgh Fringe, of accessible and reusable methodological tools, and the strengthening of collaboration between artists and European institutions.

The project aims to increase the visibility and recognition of Deaf culture, empower artists and cultural operators, expand transnational co-operation and consolidate inclusive artistic practices in Europe by promoting a common artistic experience that fully integrates different communities and forms of expression.

The Artistic Direction of the project was led by a team of Deaf / native artists: Diana Anselmo (IT), Angel Naumovski (HR), Tony Weaver (PT).