our story — our story —

A European project created for self-awareness and direction

At the end of March, we had the chance to participate in a project that was nothing like a typical training or art residency. Hosted in Shëngjin, a peaceful coastal town in Albania, The Inner Journey: Empower Your Path was part of an Erasmus+ initiative designed to help young professionals reconnect with themselves. Funded entirely by the European Union, the project brought together creatives and youth workers from Romania, Albania, Italy, Turkey, Kosovo, Georgia and Croatia, all sharing the same need: clarity, energy, and direction in their lives and careers.

The focus of the program was not on technique or productivity but rather on personal values, vision, emotional resilience, and lifestyle alignment. Using a structure built around daily themes—from self-assessment to goal-setting—the course invited us to slow down, listen, and re-evaluate how we approach both our personal and professional paths.

And yes—it all happened in a 4-star hotel with sea and mountain views, incredible food, and a room on the 14th floor. From the very start, we knew this was something special. What we didn’t expect was how much we would take with us long after the program ended.

A day-by-day structure that turned into a personal framework

Each day of the program was built around a clear theme. Mornings started with yoga sessions on the terrace, connecting breath, body, and attention, gently preparing us for what followed. Afterward, we moved into sessions led by Emanoela, a professional coach who guided us through the main concept of the day. She would present a task or question, then give us time to explore it in silence, with calm music playing in the background.

The structure included topics like:

• Assessing your reality: understanding how satisfied you are in key areas of life (health, career, family, love, creativity).
• Exploring your beliefs and mindset: understanding how thought patterns affect behavior.
• Aligning with your values: defining your mission and vision.
• Creating an action plan: building daily and long-term goals with structure.

Even for artists who are used to creative reflection, the process felt deeper, more grounded. It wasn’t abstract—it was specific, emotional, and transformative. As participants, we were challenged not just to dream, but to design. That shift—from vision to real plan—was a big turning point.

Our story inside this structure: clarity through challenge

Entering the experience with open minds but little expectation, two participants from Romania discovered more than they had imagined. The process became a powerful tool for re-centering and redefining values—not only personally, but also for future collaborations with artists.

During a guided reflection, each person was invited to focus on one area of life. One chose to explore physical health, setting clear and realistic intentions. For the first time in a long while, these intentions didn’t feel like distant resolutions—they felt like the beginning of a practical roadmap.

The other focused on the relationship with work and the toll of creative burnout. Through honest self-inquiry, the realization emerged that what was missing was not inspiration, but consistency and balance. By the end of the program, a new weekly structure had taken shape—one that supported both creativity and personal well-being.

One of the most unexpected moments happened during a group game, where we had to decode the meaning of an old Albanian saying by asking local people in the city of Shkodër. What started as a fun challenge turned into a deep cultural learning experience—and a reminder of how powerful collaboration and curiosity can be.

A night to remember: music, food, and pure connection

One of the most unforgettable moments of the whole experience was our night out at a local Albanian restaurant. After several days of deep reflection and training, the organizers surprised us with a cultural evening to unwind and celebrate. What followed was a truly mesmerizing immersion into Albanian tradition, where food, music, and community came together in the most beautiful way.

We were welcomed with a feast of local dishes—flavors rich in history, with ingredients prepared in traditional ways. Every plate felt like a story. From grilled meats to fresh salads, slow-cooked delicacies to handmade desserts, it was a complete culinary experience. And as if the food wasn’t already enough to make us smile non-stop, the night took a magical turn when a group of folk musicians took the stage.

The rhythms of traditional Albanian music filled the room, and before we knew it, we were clapping, laughing, and dancing together. Locals joined in, teaching us the steps with infectious energy and open hearts. It was more than entertainment—it was connection. We felt what it means to celebrate life, tradition, and each other in a way that only live music and good food can make possible.

That night brought everyone closer. Barriers dropped, friendships deepened, and we got a clear sense of how culture can be both grounding and joyful. For many of us, it was the moment when the whole experience crystallized—not just about personal goals, but about being present, sharing moments, and embracing the richness of another culture with open arms.

Exploring Tirana: a perfect ending to a transformative week

After the official program ended, we had one more day to explore—this time, the vibrant capital of Albania: Tirana. It was the perfect way to wrap up the experience. We wandered through lively streets, visited cultural landmarks, tried local pastries, and soaked in the dynamic energy of the city. Tirana offered a completely different vibe than the peaceful coastline of Shëngjin—urban, artistic, and full of color. It was a reminder of how diverse and alive Albanian culture is, and gave us space to reflect on everything we experienced during the week. It felt like a quiet celebration of how far we had come, and how inspired we were to bring this energy back into our own communities.

What this means for artists: growth beyond technique

While this program wasn’t focused on art-making itself, its impact on our artistic direction was profound. Most creatives are used to flowing with inspiration, but when that flow runs dry, it’s often because there’s no deeper structure holding everything together. What this project taught us is that clarity of values leads to clarity in practice.

Whether you're struggling with motivation, time management, or long-term vision, revisiting your core values and aligning your daily actions with them can be game-changing. The tools offered during the course—reflection exercises, personal audits, visualization, and goal-setting techniques—can be integrated into your own creative routine. You don’t need to wait for a retreat or a special occasion. You can start today, right where you are.

The Erasmus+ framework provides more than just logistics. It creates the conditions for intentional transformation, in community, with guidance. It reminds us that even artists need structure. And that personal well-being is a foundational layer of professional creativity.

A program worth sharing

For us, this was more than a week away from home. It was a pause, a mirror, and a new direction. We’re grateful to Kalaudi, Amarilda, Gian Luca, and Emanoela, the core team who held the space with such professionalism and care. Their ability to create flow between individual work, group dynamics, and cultural exploration made the experience both enjoyable and impactful.

As members of the Ilustromania community, we encourage artists to stay open to these types of experiences. Whether you're a youth worker, a full-time illustrator, or just navigating your next chapter, there are programs like this one that can support your growth—not by giving you more to do, but by helping you understand why you do what you do.

And sometimes, the best thing for your art... is to stop making it for a few days, and just look within.

Conclusion - The Inner Journey was more than a training—it was a reset, a connection, and a reminder that growth starts from within. Through shared experiences, honest reflection, cultural immersion, and meaningful planning, we discovered new clarity in our personal and creative paths. For any artist seeking purpose, balance, or direction, programs like this can offer not only tools, but transformation. We returned home with full hearts, clearer minds, and a strong belief that creative work flourishes when it’s rooted in authenticity and self-awareness.

The birth of Ilustromania

After closing a chapter in advertising, the need for something more organic, artistic, and meaningful emerged. This wasn’t just about graphic design principles anymore; it was about making a deeper impact on the world through creativity. The idea was clear: to expand into graphic illustration, embracing a medium that felt both liberating and expressive.

After weeks of brainstorming, the name Ilustromania stood out. It combined "illustration" and "mania," perfectly reflecting the passion behind the vision. Surprisingly, the word "Romania" embedded within it wasn’t noticed until months later, an accidental yet fitting homage to its roots. Over time, the name took on variations, each carrying its own unique identity:

• Ilustromania – The complete name representing the brand’s mission.
• Ilustro – A playful nickname adaptable to concepts like ilustroteam or ilustroshop.
• Mania – A tribute to the diversity of artists, styles, and creative energy.
• Ilustroman – A humorous nickname used within the team.
• Ilustromân – A proud nod to Romanian heritage.
• Ilu – A child-friendly sub-brand.
• Oma – The founder’s initials (Onea Mihai Alin), discovered serendipitously.
• Omania – A quirky, personal touch embodying "his world, his mania."

The logo itself was born from a quick marker sketch, later digitized and refined. This spontaneity mirrored the project’s organic growth.

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Establishing a foundation

The journey began with an Instagram account showcasing illustrations. Within months, the project shifted from personal to professional, sparking conversations about its first event. This was more than just a platform for creative expression; it was the foundation for a new chapter in a career once constrained by design rules.

The vision evolved into creating a safe and supportive space for artists to grow together, both offline and online. The goal wasn’t just to promote individual artists but to foster a collective spirit where creativity thrived naturally.

A shared mission for the future

The vision has grown into a vibrant community that unites artists across all career stages. Ilustromania strives to provide a supportive environment where creativity flourishes freely. By fostering mutual growth and aiming for financial sustainability, it aspires to leave a lasting impact on the art world.

Conclusion: Ilustromania embodies the spirit of collaboration and artistic freedom. From its humble beginnings to its expanding vision, it proves that creativity thrives in a supportive community. By uniting diverse voices and providing a platform for growth, Ilustromania continues to redefine what it means to be part of an artistic collective.