Art of Aging—Enriching Lives of Older Adults Through Drawing
As part of Healthy Aging Month, UMRC & Porter Hills is proud to offer many different ways to remain healthy and active as we age, including The Art of Aging program.
Launched in 2017, thanks to the support of grantors like Aroha Philanthropies, The Chelsea Community Foundation, and the Ann Arbor Kiwanis Club, residents continue to enjoy art courses, instructed by local teaching artists. Most recently, Chelsea Retirement Community’s Glazier Commons and Towsley Village participated in a drawing class, taught by Jean Downs. A resident of The Cedars of Dexter, Jean holds a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from Wittenberg University. She enjoys teaching both children and older adults.
Over the course of eight weeks, students learned from Jean the basics of drawing, building on their skills and creativity. “I always hope that my students enjoy my class as much as I enjoy teaching it. My goal, and I tell them this, is that by the end of the class they will never see the world in the same way. This is a class about learning to see what is really before you and reproducing the wonder of it instead of drawing preconceived symbols. I love working with the students and I love watching their delight when they accomplish a successful drawing that pleases them,” says Jean Downs.
On Friday, August, 27th, participants in The Art of Aging Drawing class showcased their work for friends, family members, and neighbors at the Culminating Event. Smiles and great artwork were seen all around Glazier Commons Town Square.
Studies have shown that older adults who participate in weekly arts programs report better overall health with fewer doctor visits and less medication usage, more positive mental health, and greater involvement in overall activities than groups which did not participate in creative programming. UMRC & Porter Hills is proud to offer unique and fun healthy learning opportunities for residents through The Art of Aging.
To learn more about UMRC & Porter Hills and our healthy aging initiatives, visit us online at www.umrcph2022.wpengine.com.