Elders showcase artistry, share wisdom

By Travis Lee

Contributing Writer

“Never stop learning, because life never stops teaching.”

— Unknown

Too often, the need of seniors to continue to grow and share their talents in their golden years gets overlooked or ignored. But on Sat., Jan. 21, MPS Community Ed and the Magnet Program met this need head-on as families, friends, and City officials came together for a joyful afternoon of art and storytelling.

The occasion highlighted and celebrated the creativity and wisdom of elders across three Minneapolis communities—North Market (Northside), Sabathani Community Center (Southside), and Westminster Presbyterian Church (downtown). The “Sharing Our Wisdom” artist showcase is part of a larger project led by Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) Community Education in collaboration with the Magnet Senior Program at Westminster.

Organizers recognized a need for older adults to have social enrichment opportunities and reconnect with their communities after years of Covid restrictions and various degrees of isolation. Both programs collaborated to offer free, six-week art and well-being classes at the three respective sites.

“Many older adults lost their social muscle during the pandemic. Their will to engage outside their home had atrophied,” said Angelique Kingsbury, coordinator of the Magnet Senior Program. “This project allowed them to get out in the community again, meet new friends, and

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