Green Time, Creative Energy
The premiere at the Népkör Hungarian Cultural Center
In August, the Népkör Hungarian Cultural Center in Subotica came alive with energy and creativity as part of the Green E.Th.I.Cs Project.
The highlight was the debut of the “Green Time - Game Time” Live Game, premiered during the “Interetno Festival”. This interactive board game, set in a traditional farmyard, used everyday scenarios to emphasize the impact of small, mindful actions in protecting the environment.
One particularly poignant scene involved a grandfather loading groceries into plastic bags at the checkout counter. A young cashier pointed out the environmental harm caused by plastic bags, expressing frustration with older generations’ habits. In response, the grandfather explained how his generation had long practiced sustainability—reusing glass bottles, walking or cycling instead of driving, and favoring manual tools over energy-intensive machines. These anecdotes reminded the audience that sustainability isn’t just a modern trend—it has been a way of life in the past, woven into daily routines.
The Green Time - Game Time performance, alongside the game itself, encouraged audiences to think of environmental consciousness not as a fleeting topic of discussion but as a lifestyle choice that everyone can embrace to protect the planet for future generations.
The live game wasn’t the only exciting activity this season. Families and local residents
joined us for five days of hands-on craft workshops tied to the “Interetno Festival”,
creating functional items from recycled materials. These workshops served as a joyful
celebration of creativity while also driving home the importance of an active and sustainable lifestyle.
In addition to these family-friendly events, the center hosted a movement workshop led by the Omma Studio. Designed for young artists and students from the “Novi Sad Academy of Arts”, this session used physical expression to explore environmental themes. Through movement, participants found a deeper connection to nature and themselves, showcasing the transformative power of art in addressing critical issues like climate change.
Earlier in the year, the Népkör Cultural Center launched the “Looking with Green Eyes” Ex Libris Competition. This international contest invited artists—both amateur and professional—to submit environmentally themed artwork using traditional etching techniques or modern digital methods. The stunning entries culminated in an October exhibition, celebrating creativity and highlighting the vital link between art and environmental awareness.
As we continue to foster dialogue and inspire action, we aim to remind everyone that a sustainable future starts with small steps, creativity, and a collective commitment to preserving our planet.