Residents from local care homes, run by The Orders of St John Care Trust (OSJCT), have created a range of artwork pieces that are set to go on display in an art exhibition at Cheltenham Library for Dementia Action Week. Various local dementia groups, including Open Arms Artists and MindSCAPE, have also contributed pieces for the special exhibition.
The exhibition will be opened by Darren Chandler, owner of Park Gallery in Montpellier, on Monday 16 May at 11.30am. The opening event will also be attended by Laura Morris, Chair of the Cheltenham Action Alliance and Customer Relations Manager at Windsor Street Care Centre, and Betty, a resident from OSJCT Windsor Street Care Centre who will see her artwork on display.
Pictures in the exhibition include: The Beatles Sketch by a resident from Monkscroft Care Centre, Dementia Symbols by a resident from Chestnut Court and Spring artwork by resident from Windsor Street Care Centre.
In total 40 pieces of artwork, that have been produced by individuals who live with dementia, will be on display throughout the week. The OSJCT care homes taking part are; Windsor Street Care Centre in Cheltenham, Chestnut Court in Quedgeley, Monkscroft Care Centre in Cheltenham, Millbrook Lodge in Brockworth, and Edwardstow Court in Stow on the Wold.
The event is taking place thanks to Laura’s passion for art (as a former art consultant) and her discussions with local organisations about ways to mark Dementia Action Week. Laura said: “This is a fantastic initiative which gives space and prominence to artwork created by people living with dementia. It gives us an insight into their creativity, and the residents who have had their artwork displayed are thrilled. It has been wonderful to see local community groups come together in this way.”
Darren said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to support this Exhibition as part of Dementia Action Week. I couldn’t be happier to support those who are making a real positive difference for those with, or yet to be diagnosed with, dementia. I can’t think of a better way engage those with dementia and to raise awareness of the condition. Art is wonderfully accessible to anyone and is an expression of our true human-self. It brings a real sense of joy to all those who ‘give it a go’!”
Elaine Roberts, Librarian, said: “Cheltenham Library feels privileged to be showcasing artwork from local care homes in Cheltenham. The paintings on display have been created by care home residents who are living with dementia. What better way to launch Dementia Action Week, demonstrating there is so much more to a person than dementia. Creative activities help to reveal hidden depths and talent. Truly eye-opening!”
To view the exhibition go to Cheltenham Library, Clarence Street, Cheltenham from 16 – 22 May.
This content was originally published here.