Smoqua is not only about celebrating art and community – it’s also a space for gaining new insights and knowledge, sharing, and empowerment. This year’s programme of workshops brings together activism, creativity, and self-care. Whether one wishes to explore new forms of expression, learn from experienced activists and artists, or simply enjoy moments of queer care – there’s something here for everyone.
✨ Workshops at Smoqua are a chance to learn, grow, and connect – together. Come with curiosity, an open heart, and readiness for new experiences.
📅 Here’s what awaits us:
Thursday, October 9
Keep Calm and fundraise!
15.00 – 16.00
📍 Gallery SKC, Kružna 8
How can we build resilience and engage supporters through small-donor fundraising? With experts from the European Center for Digital Action in Brussels, we explore how fundraising can also be a tool of solidarity.
Friday, October 10
Your DRAG-est Self with Drag Kokošinjac
13.00 – 14.00
📍 Palach, Kružna 8
If you wish to explore drag – here is a workshop for you! With awesome Drag hens from all corners of Croatia, we will share our queer experiences, connect, empower each other, but also practice expression, and enjoying self-care. Register at:: with the subject 'Smoqua 2025 drag workshop application' by Wednesday, October 8th.
Let Our Voices Be Heard!
14.00 – 15.00
📍 Gallery SKC, Kružna 8
A participatory vocal workshop with Le Zbor, designed for women and non-binary persons, with the aim of personal empowerment through singing and collective music-making. The workshop is based on the belief that the voice is one of the fundamental tools of expression and self-connection. Singing together fosters a sense of belonging, safety, and support.
Saturday, October 11
Lesbian Senior Talks, Sonja Schelper
14.00 – 15.30
📍 Palach, Kružna 8
Sonja Schelper, activist of impressive experience, brings an inspiring story about a lesbian* co-housing project in Hamburg and about (queer) joy in later life, while inviting an open exchange of ideas and approaches.
Me* in Tropical Paradise, CURE Foundation
15.00 – 16.00
📍 Palach, Kružna 8
In this workshop, every scrub is unique – the scents and colors we choose are as individual as we are. It’s a space to unleash creativity and nurture the body through feminist self-care. The workshop is led by Denija Hidić, activist and project coordinator at CURE Foundation, dedicated to women’s rights and peace activism. Note: please bring a small glass jar.
Resistance, Renewal and Resilience Through an Expressive Arts Lens, Jamie Marich & Irene M. Rodriguez
15.00 – 17.00
📍 Palach, Kružna 8
Artists, authors and therapists Jamie Marich and Irene M. Rodriguez guide us through expressive arts as a way of connecting with the flow of rest and resistance.
During these times of great unrest in the world, artists and activists are participating in acts of resistance. Yet it is imperative for us to continue nourishing ourselves through acts of rest, which allows for the cultivation of renewal and resistance. The hope is that, after the workshop, you will gain ideas for nurturing and caring for yourself as you fight to bring about a better world.
Jamie: YouTube: DrJamieMM
Instagram: drjamiem
TikTok: traumatherapistrants
Irene:
Instagram: irene_mindfuljourney
