Heart for Art exhibition goes 'Beyond Words'

Stunning artwork from more than 40 artists with dementia was recently displayed at an exhibition in the magnificent surroundings of the Kibble Palace at the Botanic Gardens in Glasgow.

CrossReach’s Heart for Art project has been proving the value and beauty of what people with dementia can do since 2012. The exhibition aimed to reduce the stigma that can be attached to a dementia diagnosis by showcasing the artists’ creativity.

Group sessions, led by art tutors, have been found to stimulate conversation, aid concentration and even improve memory. Participants don’t have to be experienced to take part, with beginners to more experienced painters coming together.

Paula Pinda, Heart for Art project co-ordinator, said: “The ‘Beyond Words’ national exhibition explored the lived experience of dementia, highlighting the positives and looking beyond the condition. Heart for Art enables and encourages people to express their emotions through the medium of creative art.”

Artwork was displayed from professional and budding enthusiasts from across Scotland: Glasgow, Dundee, Garelochhead, Kirkcudbright, Stonehaven, Edinburgh and Bankfoot.

Paula continued:

“Some of the artists have never created any artwork before and have found a new talent, while for others art was an old friend once thought lost forever. Encouraged by art tutors, their talent has been reawakened. Heart for Art enables and empowers people to find their voice through the medium of art.”

The exhibition explored how viewing and making art can be a powerful way of forging meaningful connections with others, and improving the general well-being of those living with dementia and their carers.

Elizabeth attends the Stamperland Heart for Art group:

“It was lovely to view all the other artists work. I feel really inspired by the paintings and I also felt honoured to be part of the exhibition.”

Heart for Art, which is funded by the Life Changes Trust, currently provides art classes in nine locations across Scotland.

For more information about Heart for Art please call Paula Pinda, project co-ordinator, on: 01324 718674 or e-mail: heartforart@crossreach.org.uk