New life for the dead olive tree of Ulldecona ( 6/8/2025 )

OTRart is an initiative of the Creative Europe Program that addresses waste problems in the Mediterranean through artistic expression. The project began in Kalamata, Greece, in January of this year and involves six participating countries: Greece (Olive Routes), Spain (Taula del Sénia), Italy (Ceramics Route), France (Avignon University and Dechets d'Arts), Croatia (Tourism Association), and Malta (Unfinished Art Space).

The Taula del Senia activity, related to the Ancient Olive Trees, takes place in the two Natural Museums of Ancient Olive Trees in La Jana (Castelló) and Ulldecona (Tarragona).

The project's artists are Laurent Gongora (French sculptor) and Manel Raga (filmmaker). The Taula del Senia and the town councils of La Jana and Ulldecona are participating, along with the olive tree owners: the Llorach brothers and the Porta i Ferré family, as well as the artisan potter Joan Cortiella.

Arión Natural Museum of Ancient Olive Trees in Ulldecona

The ancient dead olive tree of Ulldecona had been studied by the two artists and the artisan, and based on its characteristics, the artistic work and the entire inauguration event were organized. The exclusive ceramic piece "A COR OBERT" was placed inside the ancient dead olive tree and filled with oil from the estate's olive trees.

After the event was initiated by the authorities, artists, and owners, and after explaining the meaning of the event, Laurent Gongora invited those present to write their wishes or secrets on a piece of paper and then place it inside the amphora. Those present accepted the invitation and, after writing a piece of paper, placed it in the container. It is planned that museum visitors will be able to do the same.

Next, artist Manel Raga launched the audiovisual montage that accompanies the photography exhibition that complements the event.

Participants traveled to a country house to view two collections :

• photos from the Spanish Civil War, provided by the National Library, with children's drawings
• current photos of the Gaza war, provided by various associations.

It is planned that these images will be displayed in other locations in the future.