Oviedo pushes European Capital of Culture 2031 bid with school art residencies

Oviedo’s candidacy for the 2031 European Capital of Culture was highlighted this autumn with the launch of the "Pequeñas acciones por la ‘amabilidá’" programme. The initiative will place Asturian artists in schools for residencies that involve students in the creative process and aim to turn children into cultural ambassadors. About 2,500 pupils took part in an initial "amabilidá" march in May, and a call for project proposals will open on 17 August, with the artistic direction expected to select 14‑15 initiatives for the first part of the school year.

The bid was also showcased at the Feria Internacional de Muestras de Asturias, where a specially designed stand presented the "Amabilidá" concept through interactive panels, tote bags, scarves and reflective surfaces. The stand, created by the Asturian firm Proasur, emphasizes community, dialogue and cultural participation as a response to social tension. The exhibition ties the cultural programme to broader themes of education, social cohesion and the city’s vision for the 2031 capital.

Oviedo competes with Cáceres, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Granada, and will submit a second dossier to the European jury before 3 November, outlining its artistic programme and governance model.