Date of Award

Spring 6-1-2020

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Education

First Advisor

Dr. Paul Sproll

Abstract

This thesis documents my journey in designing and facilitating a series of artmaking and storytelling workshops for older adults, grounded in a positive view of aging. Building on Tockwotton Makes, a series of 40 artmaking sessions conducted over a period of two years, I envisioned and hosted a new project called Her Story Press, which consisted of 7 sessions of artmaking and storytelling workshops. This thesis collects stories and lessons from both of these programs, which took place at Tockwotton on the Waterfront, an assisted living community in Providence, Rhode Island. Additionally, it includes references to some bold and important work by other active practitioners and scholars, in the field of art programming for seniors. The workshops described here strive to embrace the idea and philosophy of NEW OLD: re-imagining old age as a place of abundance rather than lack, as years full of life, potential and growth: and viewing older adults as valuable workshop co-creators, contributing to a more enjoyable and more accessible experience for all. The purpose of this thesis is to inspire others to join in this kind of work, work that allows you to engage in exciting artmaking in a community setting, and that would surely transform you as an artist, educator and human.

Included in

Art Education Commons

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