International conference discusses art, aging and ageism in Faro and Loulé

Loulé and Faro will host the second edition of the International Conference on Art, Citizenship and Ageism in Aging, a meeting that combines research, artistic practices, and public policies to rethink the role of the arts in longevity and in building a more inclusive and intergenerational society, on September 18 and 19.

Taking place in the Algarve, this edition reinforces the importance of cultural and academic decentralization in Portugal, establishing the region as a leading figure in the international debate on creative aging. In addition to international voices, the program also highlights local projects and institutions, creating a unique dialogue between local experiences and global trends.

For two days, national and international experts, artists, and professionals from different fields will share projects and reflections on how the arts can promote quality of life, enhance citizenship, and strengthen social participation in older adults.

The program opens in Loulé with workshops led by Companhia Maior , a pioneering company in Portugal made up of performers over 60 years old.

The conference will also feature the presence of Farrell Renowden (United Kingdom), an international reference in the Creative Ageing movement, who will present the keynote « The Convincing Case for Creative Ageing… and the Role of Ageism ».

Four thematic panels will feature 15 speakers from across the country, sharing experiences and research on health and well-being, citizenship, lifelong learning, and intergenerational communities. The first day concludes with the performance "Contos e Cantos – Património dos Lugares" (Tales and Songs – Heritage of Places), directed by artist Margarida Mestre, in collaboration with the Quarteira community.

Ageism is the term used to describe discrimination, prejudice or stereotyping based on age, particularly directed at older people.

It functions as the equivalent of racism or sexism, but applied to age: from paternalistic attitudes ("they can't learn anymore") to exclusionary practices in the workplace, culture, or access to services. The concept is currently widely discussed in public policy and social studies because it directly influences the quality of life in aging societies.

The conference is organized by Companhia Maior, Loulé City Council/Cineteatro Louletano, the Institute of Art History of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities of the Universidade Nova de Lisboa ( IHA – FCSH ) and the Center for Studies in Arts and Communication (CEAD) of the University of Algarve ( UAlg ).

Admission is free, although prior registration is required , as it is subject to room capacity. The full program can be found here .