Kawartha Art Gallery launches “Seniors for Seniors” program to inspire connection through creativity

Kawartha Lakes – Kawartha Art Gallery is proud to announce the launch of Seniors for Seniors, an innovative new outreach program designed by seniors for seniors. This sensory-based visual arts initiative brings practicing senior artists into long-term care homes, delivering engaging and inclusive workshops that foster creativity, connection, and well-being among participants. The program is designed to promote social participation, reduce isolation, and strengthen community ties through shared creative expression. In addition to supporting residents, the program also follows government mandates to hire senior artists, keeping them busy and productive.

With the support of the municipality, the pilot phase of Seniors for Seniors is currently underway at Victoria Manor in Lindsay, where groups of 4 to 6 residents are taking part in art-making sessions in a calm and positive environment. The program has been warmly received. Participants are enjoying the hands-on activities and the opportunity to socialize. Their completed artworks are also sparking conversation and interaction among other residents, visiting family members, and staff. The Gallery aims to expand the program, with the long-term goal of making this a permanent part of its community outreach programming.

“Programs like Seniors for Seniors are a testament to the power of creativity at every stage of life,” says RoseMarie Condon, project supervisor at Kawartha Art Gallery. “It’s a joy to see how art opens doors for connection and self-expression.”

Rachel Edmondson, Life Enrichment Supervisor with the City of Kawartha Lakes, adds, “This kind of meaningful engagement is exactly what we strive for in our long-term care communities. It enhances well-being and plays a role in positive outcomes, including our preparation for upcoming Accreditation at Victoria Manor.”

With senior artists like RoseMarie Condon and her assistant, Elayne Windsor, leading the workshops, Seniors for Seniors brings authentic peer-to-peer engagement that resonates deeply with participants. Victoria Manor and City of Kawartha Lakes are proud to collaborate with Kawartha Art Gallery on this important initiative and look forward to expanding its reach, one brushstroke at a time.

Situated in Central Ontario, west of Peterborough and northeast of Toronto, Kawartha Art Gallery is the only public art gallery in the City of Kawartha Lakes. The stewards of a Permanent Collection on behalf of the citizens of the City of Kawartha Lakes, the Gallery hosts year-round exhibits providing CARFAC fee payment for artists. Kawartha Art Gallery is dedicated to advancing a healthy rural creative economy through engaging art and cultural programs and services for all. 

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Media Contact - Kawartha Art Gallery

Tim Crouch, General Manager
communications@kawarthagallery.com 

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