A unique project aiming to enhance the lives of those living with dementia, is now on display in Liverpool city centre.
Where the Arts Belong has investigated how to do this through a number of arts sessions between the city's centre for contemporary arts, and dementia care operator Belong, whose customers have been enjoying creative experiences led by critically-acclaimed artists.
The research project began in 2019, in the form of ‘artist residencies' which initially saw six artists working with Belong's residents, engaging them in an array of art forms, ranging from storytelling and sculpture to sound art and dance. During Covid-19 lockdowns, participation widened to include Belong's community care customers, bringing artists into their homes, via video call..
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Open now, the Making Sense (Of It All) exhibition showcases these sessions, while visitors will have the chance to discover the outcomes of the initiative, via a programme of talks and events with the artists themselves, including: Francisco Carrasco, Suki Chan, Gav Cross, Alan Dunn, Roger Hill, Philip Jeck, Brigitte Jurack, Mary Prestidge, and Jonathan Raisin.
Also on show is CONSCIOUS, an immersive experience featuring people living with dementia by artist and filmmaker, Suki Chan. Her film includes the personal journey and perception of reality for Belong resident Pegeen O'Sullivan and a sound sculpture featuring the voices of Pegeen and Belong colleagues will also be revealed.
Stacey McCann, Belong Interim co. chief executive and chief operating officer, said: "Our aim has been to explore best practice using the arts to the benefit of older people in care contexts - particularly for those on a dementia journey. It is truly a pioneering project for arts provision in care environments."
Tabitha Moses, project facilitator for Where the Arts Belong, added: "Our exhibition marks the culmination of all the work with Belong and their customers so far - it's definitely not one to be missed."
The Where the Arts Belong: Making Sense (Of It All) and Suki Chan CONSCIOUS exhibitions can be enjoyed at the Bluecoat, School Lane, Liverpool, from March 12 - June 12, 2022.
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