The Arts and Older Adults

Sabrina Bejba

Visual Arts

During my residencies in the Eeyouistchee (Northern Quebec) I facilitated workshops with elders and youth as well. I have also facilitated intergenerational workshops in Montreal. My favourite experiences have always been watching youth and older adults create alongside each other; supporting each other.

I enjoy creating cyanotype art specifically with older adults because it is very accessible, doesn’t require too much mobile dexterity and it is a very rewarding medium. It is a very old technique and connects to traditional forms of photography. It also invites participants to share stories around photographs and familiar objects that they connect with.

To me, art making is about sharing stories. I enjoy creating art with older adults because they are like libraries – they have so much wisdom and experiences to gift. Art making is an invitation for us to share and listen.

Sample workshop:

Cyanotype printing is a traditional camera-less photography technique. This magical art form invites participants to create with uv-light and photosensitive papers and fabrics. Participants can collect objects, choose photographs, create drawings and experiment with varying compositions and layers. The process for each print is about 15 minutes which allows participants to create multiple pieces and encourages experimentation and collaboration. This medium is very accessible and fun!

Video:

Materials:

Cyanotype medium, water colour paper or white cotton fabric, UV lamps, objects, acetates, dry erase markers, extension cords, bins, washing trays. (I have all this equipment and travel with it)

Available for:

In-person workshops

Language(s) of facilitation:

English, French

Project type:

Older Adults and Intergenerational

Contact: