Older People Use Art To Share Memories And Life Experiences

Older people have been exploring and sharing their memories and life experiences through a unique art project.

The group, who all live in Lymm, took part in workshops to discuss their thoughts and feelings before using them as inspiration for striking works of art, now displayed in the Slippers in the Rain exhibition at Pyramid arts centre.

Named after Jenny Joseph's popular poem Warning, about positive ageing, the display features a variety of work produced by residents aged between 60 and over 90.

The colourful illustrations capture the spirit of that poem; of taking delight in the freedoms that can come with advancing age.

The residents, some of whom live independently and some in care homes, gathered together for workshops with local artist Helena Edwards and enjoyed contributing towards collaborative collages or producing their own unique masterpieces.

Helena said: "Many older people are forced to give up hobbies they have enjoyed because of failing health, which leads to isolation.

"I believe that painting can be a positive outlet for creativity and provide a sense of companionship, regardless of whether people feel they are 'artistic'."

Creativity, she said, can help people face challenges like loneliness and failing health, to celebrate and share memories, and to respond to the world around them.

Inspiration for the artwork also came from residents' memories of the hardships of wartime and the pleasures of dancing.

Lilies of the Field was created at an event at Lymm Baptist Church for older people who are living independently in the community while the other artists live in residential care homes such as Keate House and Cheshire Grange.

Helena added: "I am hoping that the current exhibition will become a regular event and include a much wider range of older artists. I am sure many care homes and day centres across Warrington will be doing similar work and it would be great to share our ideas.

"It is also very encouraging for older people to know their efforts are appreciated: we have had some lovely feedback on this exhibition."

Derek Dick, outreach and engagement manager, explained Culture Warrington's mission to showcase the positive and creative aspect of the older people's community.

He said: "We wanted to challenge the negative stereotypes of ageing and living in residential care, and show that older people have a wealth of experience and wisdom which is often very inspiring.

"I hope the group are proud of their achievements and enjoyed expressing themselves artistically, and that others will be encouraged to do the same."

The Slippers in the Rain display is accompanied by a comments book which already features reviews describing the work as "beautiful", "moving" and "colourful and expressive".

Greetings cards featuring Lilies of the Field are available to buy for a donation of £1.50 to Lymm Baptist Church.

For more information visit www.pyramidparrhall.com.

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