Danijela Tomičić, professor of history and employee of the Institute of Education, together with the students of the High School of Fine Arts “Gabrijel Jurkić,” launched an inspiring local civic initiative called “Tracing Ancestral Paths.” Danijela is a participant in the Learn, Think, and Act! training program for teachers and support staff of secondary schools, which supports participants in conducting their own local civil initiatives. Danijela’s initiative brought together young people to explore the rich cultural and natural heritage of Mostar and the surrounding areas.
The initiative’s main focus was improving students’ mental health through physical activity, art therapy and workshops with a psychologist. With the support of the Croatian Mountaineering Association Prenj 1933, Danijela’s idea combined research, learning, and a deep connection with nature. At the heart of the activity was the creation of a tangible piece of artwork: a wooden panoramic frame adorned with carved symbols representing the cultural and natural heritage of Mostar. The students walked the existing trails and roads around the city of Mostar, including Hum and Planinica hills. They also learned about trail markings, hiking guidelines, and safety rules. The workshops covered the importance of mental health and the benefits of spending time in nature.
From conception to realization, the project evolved through various activities that fostered creative collaboration. Students meticulously sketched the panoramic frame and educational boards. The workshops at the “Gabrijel Jurkić” High School of Fine Arts, led by Professor Željko Koren, provided students with the opportunity to learn various woodworking techniques, transforming their artistic visions into tangible art.
The initiative culminated in guided hiking trips along marked trails through scenic locations, where students were tasked with finding the ideal spot for the panoramic frame. Beyond the fun and adventure, the trips also offered a chance to reflect on the importance of physical activity for mental health.
In June, with the support of volunteers from the Croatian Mountaineering Association Prenj, the students installed the panoramic frame, educational boards, and solar lighting at carefully chosen locations. The process involved logistical challenges such as digging holes, securely positioning the frame, and ensuring that every detail accurately reflected Mostar’s cultural and natural heritage.
“This initiative saw students hiking in the hills around Mostar, Hum and Planinica, accompanied by guides from the Association Prenj. During the trips in April and May, participants attended workshops led by psychologists, where they focused on the multiple benefits of nature and physical activity for mental and psychological health. They were also taught different exercises and relaxation techniques. Through research and hands-on work, including sketching, painting, engraving, and modeling, the students learned and applied various skills. Finally, they crafted a panoramic frame highlighting distinctive features of the natural and cultural heritage around Mostar, and engraved these details onto educational boards. This creation by art school students serves as a lasting testament to the city of Mostar, its residents, and all visitors to this city on the river Neretva,” noted Danijela Tomičić, reflecting with pride on the achievements of her initiative.
The initiative was implemented in partnership with the Croatian Mountaineering Association Prenj 1933, with mentoring and financial support from the Institute for Youth Development KULT.
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