Multidisciplinary Conference on Cultural Heritage Kicks Off in Petrovac

The International Multidisciplinary Conference titled “Cultural and Creative Industries & Heritage: Ecoexperience” is set to take place from March 4 to March 8, 2024, in Petrovac, Montenegro. Organized by the local association Društvo za kulturni razvoj “Bauo” in collaboration with various partners, this year marks the fifth iteration of the conference. It has developed into a prominent forum addressing the relationship between cultural and natural heritage, creative industries, ecology, agriculture, and sustainable development.

The event will unfold across two locations in Petrovac. The official opening ceremony is scheduled for 11:00 at the gym/amphitheater of JU Osnovna škola “Mirko Srzentić.” This opening will feature a traditional festival showcasing local food and agricultural products, symbolizing the connection between knowledge, community, and local production. A particular emphasis will be placed on the involvement of children and youth in these discussions.

The conference program will take place at Hotel “Monte Casa” throughout the five days. Attendees can expect a variety of panel discussions, plenary lectures, scientific presentations, and thematic sessions focused on sustainable heritage management and resource utilization.

The inclusion of JU Osnovna škola “Mirko Srzentić” is especially noteworthy, as it extends beyond being a mere venue and formal partner. By incorporating the school’s space, staff, and students into the festival and educational program, the conference gains a strong educational and intergenerational dimension. This initiative aims to create an environment where young people can engage with local producers, experts, researchers, and artists, fostering awareness about the importance of heritage, culture, agriculture, and environmental stewardship from an early age. According to Društvo “Bauo,” this approach emphasizes the critical nature of communal involvement in preserving local traditions and caring for the environment.

Over the course of the five-day event, Petrovac na Moru will host around 50 participants from various countries, including Montenegro, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Slovenia, Greece, Turkey, France, and the United States. This diverse representation underscores the international scope of the initiative, which has been bridging gaps between academia, cultural institutions, the economy, and the civil sector for half a decade.

The conference receives financial support from the Municipality of Budva and the Chamber of Commerce of Montenegro. Additionally, the Natural History Museum of Montenegro and the University of Donja Gorica are providing institutional and academic backing, given the thematic relevance to their areas of work. Numerous other institutions, organizations, and local stakeholders are also contributing to the event, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in promoting sustainable development in the region.

As the conference unfolds, it promises to be a significant gathering for dialogue and action, advancing not only local heritage but also fostering international cooperation in cultural and creative industries.