The FSU-Opening Minds through Art (OMA) program celebrated a successful end to the first ever summer program on June 21st with “Brunch & Brushstrokes!” This summer, OMA recruited eight interns to work with over 16 older adults over the course of six weeks. Interns travelled to partner facilities (The Grove at Canopy and Tapestry Senior Living) twice a week to form one-on-one relationships with people living with dementia through art-making. Students also completed reflection assignments, discussions, and a final project.
The artists (people living with dementia) travelled to FSU’s Claude Pepper Center where the event was held, alongside staff and living community directors. This event marked the first art gallery held at FSU, which provided a change from the art shows previously held at the living communities. The artists expressed excitement and joy at the opportunity to visit Florida State University.
Guests enjoyed provided brunch, strolling through the art gallery to see the 60+ art pieces created by the artists. Even though the artists followed the same “no-fail” weekly project recipe, all the art pieces expressed individuality, creativity, and uniqueness.
During the OMA presentation, AARP Florida presented the AARP Fraud Fighter Award to Professor Rima Nathan, honoring her commitment to fighting fraud and scams targeting older adults. The OMA program also recognizes Professor Nathan’s commitment to FSU-OMA as we proudly continue OMA’s partnership with the Claude Pepper Elder Law Clinic.
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