Take in 'Inspirational Memories' This Weekend

Hands at work during an art activity with the Alzheimer Society of Sarnia Lambton

January marks Alzheimer Awareness Month in Canada, and on January 11 and 12, 2014, the Judith & Norman Alix Art Gallery, along with the Alzheimer Society of Sarnia Lambton, presents Inspirational Memories, an exhibition featuring art work created by the participants of a pilot program in partnership with the Alzheimer Society of Sarnia Lambton. Please join us in celebrating this important partnership at the opening reception on Saturday, January 11 at 1:30 pm.

In September 2013, The Alzheimer Society of Sarnia Lambton partnered with the JNAAG to provide an outreach program for local individuals living with early onset dementia and their caregivers. The program was inspired by a concept developed at the Museum Of Modern Art in New York. Under the encouragement of trained facilitators and volunteers, local residents and their caregivers gathered at the gallery for group conversation around selected artworks, followed by a hands on activity designed to foster involvement and discussion.

A few examples of the art works created during the pilot project

Research has shown the powerful role that engaging with art can play in the lives of people living with dementia and this partnership provides those living with the degenerative disease an opportunity to articulate unspoken emotions through art therapy. In partnering with the Alzheimer Society of Sarnia Lambton, the JNAAG's goal is to work together and provide a creative and safe environment where participants can express their thoughts, opinions and stories through art."

Inspirational Memories, will present artworks created by program participants this Saturday January 11, and Sunday, January 12, in the second floor lecture theatre of the JNAAG. The JNAAG, and the Alzheimer Society of Sarnia Lambton, will be expanding programs for individuals with dementia throughout 2014.