Creative skills of people with dementia to be showcased in new exhibition

ARTWORK created by people with dementia will be displayed to the public after a project aimed to get their creativity flowing.
A dementia friendly art project has been running for people with dementia and their carers living in and around Waterlooville and HavantA dementia friendly art project has been running for people with dementia and their carers living in and around Waterlooville and Havant
A dementia friendly art project has been running for people with dementia and their carers living in and around Waterlooville and Havant

With people spending more time at home, which can be particularly stressful for those with dementia and their carers, a crafting company adapted its workshops to be done from home as part of a community art project.

Creative Mojo clients in Havant and Waterlooville were able to enjoy craft activities as part of a three-month project funded by Hampshire county councillor Ann Briggs, with aims to lift people’s mood during uncertain times.

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The colourful creations produced by 11 people and their carers will be displayed at Waterlooville Library from Friday until the end of October during opening hours, as a monthly dementia event was held at the venue before lockdown.

A dementia friendly art project has been running for people with dementia and their carers living in and around Waterlooville and HavantA dementia friendly art project has been running for people with dementia and their carers living in and around Waterlooville and Havant
A dementia friendly art project has been running for people with dementia and their carers living in and around Waterlooville and Havant
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Kym Devine, who runs Creative Mojo in Chichester, Portsmouth and the surrounding areas, said: ‘According to the Alzheimer's Society 78 per cent of people affected by dementia reported feeling lonelier and more isolated due to the pandemic.

‘Art has a wonderful ability to improve individual wellbeing, help de-stress, lift the mood, focus the mind and relax individuals.

‘People with dementia may find it difficult to communicate their thoughts and feelings verbally, and often taking part in a creative activity can help improve communication while increasing a sense of worth, value and belonging.’

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The art packs which were sent out were designed with the person with dementia in mind and included useful items such as a selection of themed die cut card shapes, backing card and additional patterned paper, along with laminated clear instructions including an example image of the finished piece of art.

Kym, from Rowlands Castle, said: ‘We have had the pleasure of working with 11 people and their carers, sending themed art packs and art materials to their homes, and in some cases running Covid safe one to one workshops within the home.

‘The aim of the project has been to encourage creativity, activity and a sense of community during these uncertain times, when vital services like day care, memory cafes and social clubs have been shut.’

Visit Waterlooville Library from Friday to view some of the finished pieces of art, or for more information on the project visit creativemojo.com

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