Mesa Arts Center Awarded Creativity Connects Grant for Arts and Aging Projects

Mesa Arts Center is among six recipients of the Creativity Connects: National Demonstration Projectsgrant, a special initiative undertaken by the U.S. Regional Arts Organizations through generous support from the Mellon Foundation. Mesa Arts Center will receive $72,450 in support of its Creative Aging programs offered for adults 55 and older.

The Creativity Connects funding initiative is part of the NEA's 50th anniversary celebration, investigates the ways in which the arts can connect with other sectors, including education, healthcare, social justice, and the like, that want and utilize creativity. Mesa Arts Center Creative Aging: Expanding on a Foundation will further develop programming the organization has in place for lifelong learning opportunities for senior citizens living independently as well as in various assisted-care facilities. Partners for these programs include with Oakwood Creative Care, Inc., Banner's Alzheimers' Institute and Mesa Public Libraries. Arizona Commission on the Arts from Western States Art Federation's region nominated the City of Mesa and Mesa Arts Center.

Mesa Arts Center's current Creative Aging programs include Mature Moving Me (creative movement for the mature mover over age 55), Entangle (hands-on sessions where participants create mixed media, abstract sculptures), Duende (Flamenco movement and culture for older adults), Works-in-Progress (feedback sessions for those looking to develop an independent creative practice) and Ageless Wonders, a performing troupe for adults 55 and older presented in partnership with Mesa Public Libraries. Additional Creative Aging programs will be announced later this season.

Dates and details of each offering are included below. To RSVP or for more information, email engagement@mesaartscenter.com.