Artwork of older people in the frame at gala exhibition
The Public Health Agency (PHA) and Arts Care are launching an exhibition of arts and craft by older people as part of the third Here and Now Older People’s Arts and Wellbeing Festival.
The gala showpiece, ‘RIPE 2’ exhibition at the Ulster Hall, Belfast features artwork by older people over the age of 60 who have never had a solo exhibition.
The Here & Now Arts & Wellbeing Festival aims to enhance the health and wellbeing of older people by involving them in a wide range of high quality arts programmes in health and social care and community settings.
Mary Black, Assistant Director of Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement at the PHA, said: “This exhibition is a tribute to the fantastic ability and resource of older people. Older people can feel isolated and this art and health programme gives others an opportunity to play an active role in society, meeting others in the community, enjoying arts and crafts and perhaps even discovering talents they never knew they had.
“These types of programmes not only promote inclusion and active participation in society but also improve the health and wellbeing of participants.”
The exhibition features artwork from artists who have had other careers such as medicine, engineering, architecture and teaching.
Dr Jenny Elliott, Arts Care Chief Executive, said: “The festival, now in its third year, continues to go from strength to strength having delivered an exciting arts programme of music, drama, contemporary dance, film-making, sculpture, contemporary jewellery making and printmaking to over 5,000 older people.
“These projects further strengthen the voice of older people in our society. It is crucial to champion the right of older people to a vibrant and meaningful cultural life, harnessing their creativity with the aim of enhancing their quality of life and improving their sense of wellbeing.”
For further information about the festival please see www.artscarephanihereandnow.com