Memories in the Making is an Art Therapy program for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders.

Description
Memories in the Making© is an art program for individuals in the early and middle stages of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, which offers the opportunity for creativity and expression through the visual arts. 

Memories in the Making© differs from traditional arts and crafts offered for the elderly because it focuses on creative expression.  The products, such as watercolor paints and brushes, used in Memories in the Making are artist quality and the focus of the program is on process over product. The forms created are directed by the individual.  The process is tailored to provide structure and support for the participant while at the same time allowing them to create their own message on the paper. It is not unusual for them to paint memories from long ago or something they can no longer find the words to express.

Through the creative process of painting, these individuals speak to us, offering us the essence of them.  The art they produce is a tangible means of expression, which speaks to the families, the professional caregivers and to the public.

The program is sponsored by American Senior Communities and offered at several of their Auguste’s Cottage locations in metro Indianapolis area where art sessions take place one hour each week over the course of 10 weeks. Each group meets under the guidance of an Art Group Facilitator specifically trained, by the Alzheimer's Association, to work with individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders.

Art Show
The Memories in the Making Art Show & Sale takes place the first Friday in November at the Harrison Center for the Arts in downtown Indianapolis. This exhibit is free and open to the public where patrons can view art created by American Senior Communities’ Auguste’s Cottage residents. All pieces of art are for sale with proceeds benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association. 

Volunteer Opportunities
Memories in the Making runs three times a year with 5 facilities in each session. Two volunteers are needed for each facility. The Alzheimer's Association provides training to these volunteers and no artistic ability is needed. The time commitment is two hours per week and training and support are provided by the Alzheimer's Association of Greater Indiana.  

For more information or to volunteer for Memories in the Making please contact Elyse Phillips at elyse.phillips@alz.org or 317.575.9620.

 

Art Gallery

“Flowers Make My Happy!” by Barbara Jeanne Davis, Memories in the Making Artist