Written By Olena Riznyk
STRATHROY - This fall, Strathmere Lodge launched an intergenerational art program, Opening Minds through Art, which paired local high school students with residents for an eight-week creative journey. The program culminated in a highly anticipated art exhibition held on Monday, November 25, drawing nearly 50 attendees, including staff, family members, and friends of the participants.
Barb Thyssen, Volunteer & Community Coordinator at Strathmere Lodge, spoke about the program’s impact. “This was a really good learning experience for the students. They got to understand more about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, and for the residents, it was a win-win. They received one-on-one attention, which is often hard to come by here,” Barb shared. The program’s success was evident in the deep connections formed between the participants, who grew more comfortable with each other over time.
Initially, there was some awkwardness as students and residents navigated unfamiliar territory. However, by the fifth or sixth week, participants were beginning to feel at ease with one another. “By the end of the program, they were really starting to get comfortable with each other,” Barb said. “It was incredible to see.”
The art sessions focused on abstract creativity, allowing participants to express themselves freely. “It’s abstract,” Barb explained. “There’s no ‘right’ way to do it. If you want to splash paint, you can. It’s all about self-expression.”
The themes of the art projects varied each week, with students and residents creating works inspired by the fall season, using real leaves and mixed media like feathers and seashells. One of the final projects involved each participant working on an individual canvas that would be linked to another’s, creating a collective piece of art. “Behind every picture, there is a life story,” said Barb, who was visibly moved by the personal significance of the works. “The students learned that, and I think it was really impactful for them.”
Lois, one of the residents, praised the program’s ability to inspire creativity. “It’s amazing how much you can express with a little bit of paint and imagination. The art projects are really meaningful,” she said. Maggie, a high school student, reflected on her experience: “At first, I was nervous, but as we kept working together, I felt so comfortable. It was so inspiring.”
As the program concluded, both students and residents felt a sense of fulfillment. “I feel kind of sad that it’s over,” Maggie said. “But I’m glad I did it. It was a fun and meaningful experience.”
