Children of Saturn

Children of Saturn: Navigating mental health through art and technology

Dream: The project "Children of Saturn," initiated at the SCENA ROBOCZA - Centrum for Theatre Residency, aimed to explore and illuminate the mental health crises facing young people through a unique combination of art and documentary. Amidst the backdrop of the pandemic and a national conversation about child psychiatry's challenges, the project sought to create a platform for expression and understanding, utilizing digital mediums to reach and resonate with a broad audience.

Idea: As the pandemic imposed limitations on physical interactions, the project adapted by embracing an online format, splitting into two complementary parts: a website utilizing hypertext to share real experiences of young individuals dealing with mental health crises, and an ASMR radio play designed to induce relaxation. This innovative approach aimed to engage audiences in a deeply personal and sensory exploration of mental health.

Realization: Launching in March 2020, "Children of Saturn" quickly pivoted to an online version, meticulously crafting a hypertext website and producing an ASMR radio play. This digital transformation allowed the project to proceed despite lockdowns, reaching an audience seeking connection and understanding during unprecedented times.

Challenges and Solutions: The primary challenge was to tackle a sensitive subject like mental health with the care and depth it deserves, using online tools that could accurately convey the project's message. The solution was found in the development of a bespoke hypertext website and an ASMR radio play, created by a dedicated team of programmers, graphic designers, and artists over two months. This careful, considered approach ensured the topic was presented in an engaging, respectful manner.

Innovation: "Children of Saturn" stands as an innovative blend of art, documentary, and technology, setting it apart from other Polish cultural activities online. Its use of hypertext and ASMR offers a novel way for audiences to engage with the subject of mental health, providing both information and a therapeutic experience.

Effect: The project received critical acclaim and recognition for its unique approach to discussing mental health crises among youth. It successfully attracted young people and their relatives, offering a space for reflection, understanding, and relaxation.

Target Audience: Aimed primarily at young individuals experiencing mental health challenges and their families, "Children of Saturn" seeks to offer insight, solace, and awareness, fostering a supportive community around a pressing social issue.

Sustainability: Though low-budget and efficiently created within 2.5 months, the project's sustainability is moderated by funding limitations, impacting the website's maintenance and future development. However, its model and collected materials offer a foundation for subsequent projects, highlighting its potential for replication and long-term impact.

Digital Tools: The creation of the hypertext website required specialized skills, involving a collaborative effort among programmers, graphic designers, and the project team. This process underscores the need for technical expertise and financial support in developing and sustaining innovative digital tools like hypertext.

Funding: "Children of Saturn" was financially supported by municipal funds from Poznań and the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage, under the 'Culture on the Web' program. This funding model underscores the importance of public and cultural funding in enabling creative and socially relevant projects.

Plans: Looking forward, the project hopes to find new sponsorship partners to continue its development and reach. The potential for educational use and expansion into other documentary projects remains an exciting avenue for "Children of Saturn," promising to keep the conversation around mental health and art alive and evolvin

Responsible institution: Working Stage/Theatre Residency Centre
http://dziecisaturna.pl/Contact person on good practice: Agata Baumgart - resident artist at the Working Stage, director, Dominika Mądry - producer and education specialist: biuro@scenarobocza.pl, +48 795 577 022