An arts-based program for people with dementia and a family member or friend that includes conversations about art and hands-on activities. This series of programs will be delivered at the AGH and in community spaces in French, Italian, Portuguese, and additional languages.
Key information
Who is this project for? People living with dementia and caregivers in the Greater Hamilton Area, particularly those who do not speak English as their first language.
Project Lead: Art Gallery of Hamilton
Project partners: HIPC (Hamilton Immigration Partnership Council), Sheridan Centre for Elder Research, Additional partners not listed
Project status: ongoing, 2025 - 2027
Project location: Greater Hamilton Area, Ontario
Project team members:
- Laurie Kilgour-Walsh, Head of Programs & Learning, Project Lead
- Paula Esteves-Mauro, Coordinator, Artful Moments
Get in touch:
Laurie Kilgour-Walsh,
laurie@artgalleryofhamilton.com 905-527-6610 x272
Paula Esteves-Mauro,
paula@artgalleryofhamilton.com 905-527-6610 x252
Project story
Background:
Artful Moments was inspired by a simple act of looking at and discussing art with people living with dementia. In that moment, we saw a move away from disease-focus to the sharing of experiences. Memories were sparked, opinions were shared and we saw social engagement between participants on their own terms. We knew then there was a role for the Gallery to enhance the wellbeing of participants within our community.
This project aims to provide creative and social experiences for people living with dementia and caregivers in the Greater Hamilton Area, particularly those who do not speak English as their first language. By offering art-based activities in multiple languages, including English, French, and others based on community input, the initiative promotes self-expression, social connection and a sense of belonging.
Goals:
- To enhance the quality of life for people living with dementia, particularly older immigrants who face language barriers, by fostering inclusion, improving social engagement and helping them feel more connected and validated in their community.
- To provide people living with dementia opportunities for self-expression in the language that they are most comfortable.
- To empower participants to forge connections with art and each other.
Key Takeaways:
Participants are encouraged to include a friend or family-member to share in the program at no extra charge. We envision a program where everyone shares this experience together. Family and friends are encouraged to participate in discussions and hands-on activities alongside participants. This program is for both of you.
Program participation requires NO previous art experience. This is all about social, creative experiences. Come as you are!
The program is designed to support participants whose first language is other than English, and will be presented in the designated language (French, Italian, Portuguese, plus additional language). Facilitators are bilingual, and will be able to support some communication in English as well.