Art in Mind was a series of artistic interventions specifically designed for older adults and those in the early stages of dementia. Through observational exercises, group discussion and light touch creative activities such as painting, drawing, pottery, and textiles, we were able to enhance participants’ quality of life by improving their general well-being and encouraging social interaction.
Hibiscus Community Centre is home to the Caribbean Elderly Association located in the borough of Newham. In 2010 we were approached by the centre to run a series of summer workshops over 10 weeks, engaging their users in art activities for health & well-being.
Through discussion and reflection on personal experiences, participants were encouraged to share stories about their lives in the Caribbean and migration to the UK as the Windrush generation. During the craft based activities participants made flags, watercolour paintings inspired by their country of birth, vessels and sculptures using clay. The programme culminated with the pieces and paintings forming part of a permanent display at the entrance of the centre.
