Garden of Life and resident art exhibition at Lifeview

After months of art classes, residents recently showcased their work in its inaugural art exhibition. The event was so successful residents have decided to make the exhibition an annual event.

Run by a volunteer, the art classes have been very popular, with some residents waiting to start up to 45 minutes before the scheduled time. In the classes, residents immerse themselves in a number of creative mediums, varying from traditional brush-stroke painting to pouring multiple tins of paint over raised shapes.

At the exhibition opening, resident Jo Hester spoke of the joy the art classes had brought her and other residents as well as how the classes have captivated their imagination and creative side.

“We simply love these classes and cannot wait for them to start. We could stay here all day engrossed in this creative world”, Ms Hester says.

Guest speaker Norelle Sensche from Alzheimer’s Australia Vic also addressed the attendees, discussing the benefits of art for those living with dementia.

The majority of works on display were sold on the evening, with all funds contributing to extending the program and purchasing new materials.

And increasing opportunities for resident activities outdoors, Argyle Court also officially opened its Garden of Life this week. 

The Garden of life, named by residents to encompass the multiple areas of life the garden brings to the home, is an interactive space for residents and their families to enjoy.

Partially funded by Maggie Beer Foundation’s ‘Wellbeing Gardens Program’, a plain grass area has been transformed with exciting new features including a golf putting green and mural, children’s play area, walking track, raised garden beds, fruit trees, arbour and seating area. It has also been designed to improve the lives of those living with dementia.

Maggie Beer congratulates Lifeview on creating a special place for its residents. 

“In aged care, a beautiful garden space provides an environment for increased socialisation for the residents and a chance to potter and chat over something that, more often than not, has been an absolute passion throughout their lives – gardening,” Ms Beer says.