On March 9th, 2024, the #outofthebox workshop series of the Institute for Transgenerational Trauma Transfer Research (TTTR) at the Faculty of Psychotherapy Science, Sigmund Freud University, embarked on another phase with its pioneering arts-based participatory filmmaking event. The workshop was organized as a joint research collaboration between trauma researcher Erzsébet Fanni Tóth (SFU) and documentary filmmaker Klára Trencsényi, bringing together two different project initiatives: The Trauma Institute’s “Arriving in the City” project, funded by Aktion Austria-Hungary, and the filmmaker’s own participatory research.
This joint session of the two projects once again offers a group of teenagers with a migrant background a unique opportunity to express themselves about identity and trauma through the medium of film. The workshop also served data generation purposes for the “Arriving in the City” project.
Immersive Experience
Building upon the success of previous endeavors, this initiative revolves around a series of workshops designed to impart video production and editing skills to participating teenagers. However, the scope of the workshops extends beyond technical proficiency; they also focus on nurturing interviewing skills. These workshops are not typical academic exercises but rather immersive experiences that incorporate elements of play and gamification.
While the atmosphere may be playful, the subject matter addressed is undeniably profound and multifaceted. Participants delve into complex themes such as identity, belonging, displacement, migration, and integration. Through the medium of film, these adolescents are encouraged to explore and articulate their personal narratives, reflecting on their experiences and aspirations within the context of migration and multiculturalism.
Empowerment Through Storytelling
This #outofthebox workshop serves as a platform for these teenagers to not only develop technical skills but also to engage in critical reflection and dialogue. By providing them with the tools to construct and share their own stories, this joint session empowers participants to reclaim agency over their narratives, challenging dominant narratives surrounding migration and identity.
Moreover, the collaborative nature of the workshops fosters a sense of community and solidarity among the participants. As they navigate the intricacies of filmmaking together, they form bonds and support networks that transcend cultural and linguistic barriers.
Ultimately, the Institute for Transgenerational Trauma Transfer Research (TTTR) at the Faculty of Psychotherapy Science at Sigmund Freud University exemplifies the potential of arts-based research to facilitate meaningful engagement with complex social issues. By harnessing the power of filmmaking as a tool for self-expression and social critique, this #outofthebox workshop offers a platform for marginalized voices to be heard and valued.
Conclusion
As the latest round of workshops commences, it is evident that the impact of this critical lab initiative extends far beyond the confines of the university campus. Through the medium of film, these teenagers are not only documenting their journeys but also shaping the narratives of their communities and contributing to a more inclusive and empathetic society.
Picture Gallery
