Under 25 is excited to bring back The Artidote to India for the 3rd edition of The Artidote Tour and the first ever Artidote Moment in Kochi. The Artidote, founded and curated by Jova Ferreyra in 2015, is a virtual space where to story-tell, empathize, bond and heal through art. Today, The Artidote community has become a global support group that has saved lives through social media. As it continues to grow, it has expanded beyond the virtual and entered real spaces through these Artidote Moments hosted by Jova in cities across the world. 

What is an Artidote Moment? 

“I like to call these Momens instead ‘shows,’ ‘sessions,’ or ‘events’ because those terms imply things that are not fitting to this new kind of experience I’m trying to create. And the term “Moment” feels simple and natural, free from any weird or unnecessary associations to showmanship or a performance. (I don’t sing on stage, for instance—I mean, I may, but if I do it will be totally unscripted)

The fact is that there is no script. Every single Moment is different. It all depends on the stories, conversations and energy of each audience. And no, nobody will be forced to talk or share their thoughts in public—you can be a silent listener if you want to. In every past Moment, we’ve had people for whom it was a challenge to even show up to a public event, due to social anxiety for example. I especially want to make them feel comfortable and know that their courage for simply being there is highly appreciated and admired. 

Most of the people who come to these Moments are Artidotees—members of this community who, in one way or another, feel connected to it. Though it’s very pleasantly surprising when people who’ve never heard of The Artidote before come at the invitation of friends. Everyone is welcomed. Even parents!

Each Moment lasts roughly 3 hours. That may sound like a lot, but anybody who’s been to one can tell you how much that time flies. (Time tends to fly when you’re living in the moment). During this time, I create a comfortable enough space where everyone present can feel free to feel. Sounds simple, but feeling our feelings openly and in public can be challenging.

The mission statement of The Artidote has always been to create a space where to empathize, bond and heal through art. Our feelings and stories are our art. And this is another extension of that mission.”

—Jova