“Experience Nature through Art” with Artist & Art Therapist Rosemary Pearson, MSAT of Donna Lexa Community Art Centers.

October 10, 1:30-3:30pm

Brought to you by the Friends of Boerner Botanical Gardens, Inc. and Donna Lexa Art Centers funding provided in part by Bader Philanthropies, Inc.

Participants:  3 – 10 male and/or females participants from the general community ages 62 and older.  Participants may be experiencing the cognitive and physical challenges of aging, including mild to moderate forms of dementia.  They may also have  a need for a caregiver to be present and participate in the creative process with them.  The range of functioning may vary from working independently to needing one-on-one assistance from a caregiver, volunteer or group facilitator.

Rationale:   Mixed media, fibers, and natural elements will be used to integrate the art of weaving into therapeutic practices, enhancing the emotional and mental health of individuals in various settings. By providing resources, education, and community support, we aim to empower people to integrate nature and art as a tool to self-express and heal, promoting overall well-being and resilience.

The purpose of using multiple media and natural materials for this group is to promote engagement in the process in a non-threatening manner with everyday materials that are familiar to the participants.  Natural materials, fibers, and mixed media materials especially do not require any artistic training or experience and therefore help move past any resistance to participation, or fear of performance and comparison to the creative and artistic experience and skills of other group members.

*The groups are for elders (62- and older) and their caregivers.

Cost: $5 per participant (Caregiver is free).