We funded Gilmour Court in Glenrothes to deliver their Art for Wellbeing Project. This was a programme of art and craft classes culminating in an exhibition. The project was led by Dunfermline artist, Jo Barrett, who helped residents to create art works such as memory books, decorative candle holders and vases, jewellery and paintings using spices and watercolours. The residents also successfully received match funding from Fife Council as a result of the Cairn Community Fund.
The project will increase the confidence of residents, improve dexterity and improved mental and physical wellbeing. Art therapy can enhance communication, brain function and social interaction for people with dementia. Visual art can trigger dormant memories and emotions, inspiring conversations among those who normally struggle to express themselves and when they create the art themselves that activity stimulates the whole brain. Instead of just responding to images, they must plan, remember, create patterns and use motor skill.
The classes stops me being lonely and gives me something to look forward to on a Tuesday.
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