A Safe and Creative Space to Connect

Artful Afternoon was our first program to return to in-person sessions this year. We were able to welcome participants for two in-person sessions before we made the difficult decision to move the program back online when COVID-19 cases rose again this winter. It was wonderful to have the opportunity to see clients in-person again, and to see them enjoy some much-needed social interaction. Our staff were adaptable, quickly gathering art kits for clients to pick up to participate in the program from the comfort of their home.

Artful Afternoon is held in partnership with the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia (AGNS) and provides a fun and creative space for people with dementia and their care partner to connect with art. This creative program compliments our education and information programs, creating well-rounded support.

Both in-person and online, Lux Habrich, an artist from AGNS, leads the group through a gallery tour and an art project using art materials in carefully curated art kits prepared by AGNS for the virtual version of the program. Participants have shared they often use these materials long after the program ends.

We held 10 Artful Afternoon sessions this year with 19 participants. Through this, we’ve received excellent feedback from our program participants that both virtual and in-person formats provide an interesting, social space that is dementia-friendly and accessible to people regardless of their prior experience with art:

“We always have great interaction with each other during these sessions. Being able to see each other’s version of what we each take away from each of these sessions is an incredible experience. Learning from each “ other and from Lux is incredible. My Mum has something to look forward to, and it is special because it is her activity. She feels good because she knows she is not the only one who suffers from memory loss. The program is most inspirational. She works on the projects for a long time, and it also inspires her to do a lot more. It boosts her confidence and self-worth. It is a program that has benefited her in more ways than is imaginable.

We’re happy to provide a space for people living with dementia to connect with their care partners and each other.