Collection of art by people with dementia
A newly launched book has told the inspiring story of the Sefton Art Project, which introduced art classes to people living with dementia.
The book, titled The Hen That Laid The Golden Omelette, shares the stories of people living with dementia and challenges the assumption that people with dementia can no longer live productive lives. It’s filled with examples of the art work created, the stories behind them and heart warming anecdotes.
The book also offers practical advice for others who wish to implement similar projects.
Co-authors, Barbara Potter AM and Barbara Davison, both have extensive personal and professional experience in working with people living with dementia. During the course of the project, through close observation, reflection, trial and error, they have developed a keen understanding of how painting can contribute to the wellbeingone word of people with dementia.
Ms Potter is a nurse and founder member of Alzheimer’s Australia Vic. After travelling to America and observing similar art programs, Ms Potter was eager to set up an initiative in Australia.
Ms Davison is an artist and occupational therapist who had previously worked in aged care and as a research fellow in gerontology. She is also a passionate painter.
“We decided, as volunteers, to begin a small experimental program of art classes for people living with dementia,” Ms Potter said.
“We began working with The Sefton Club Day Centre in Hawthorn – a dementiaspecific day centre where we hosted regular classes. The purpose was to bring interest and opportunity for self expression into the lives of some people living with dementia who had lost the ability to initiate activities.”
“There are no errors in art. There is a freedom to explore without fear of failure or criticism, there is no right or wrong, just fun and enjoyment,” Ms Davison added.
Maree McCabe, Alzheimer’s Australia Vic chief executive, said: “This book demonstrates that people living with dementia still have a huge capacity for creativity and enjoyment.”
The book’s title is inspired by a painting by the late Bunty Rutherford who, aged 92 years, was asked what she would like to call her piece.
Ms Potter recalled that there was a long pause as Ms Rutherford considered her answer. “You could see her searching in her brain and then she found what she was looking for. With a huge crooked smile she said, ‘The Hen That Laid The Golden Omelette’.”
The Hen That Laid The Golden Omelette is $35 and is available here. All proceeds will go to Sefton Club Day Centre to continue to provide activities for people living with dementia. For information, contact Jill Monk on (03) 9818 1829.
