Mayo Performing Arts Center launched a Creative Aging Arts program at Cornerstone Adult Day Center in Morristown. MPAC Teaching Artist Dan Fenelon worked with senior citizens at the Cornerstone Adult Day Center in Morristown to create a mural using techniques they learn during 8-session residencies, free of charge to both Cornerstone and its participants. This brand-new arts engagement program was made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts.
The Creative Aging arts residency enabled participants to produce sophisticated artworks, and to enjoy a deep sense of relaxation as they become engrossed in the process. The final project incorporated all the students’ artwork into a community-based collage that will be mounted at the Cornerstone facility, and was revealed through a culminating event on July 27, 2023.
“MPAC thanks the New Jersey State Council on the Arts for providing the funding to launch this innovative and exciting new program in partnership with Cornerstone Social Adult Day Center to engage our senior population in activities that stimulate creativity and self expression,” said Allison Larena President and CEO, MPAC. The residency will enable participants to produce sophisticated artworks by learning how to create patterns and build complex shapes based on simple forms, and to enjoy a deep sense relaxation as they become engrossed in the process. The final project will incorporate all the students’ artwork into a community-based collage that will be mounted at the Cornerstone facility.
“We are so pleased to once again partner with our friends at Mayo Performing Arts Center to bring positive and enlivening experiences to our clients,” Cornerstone CEO Patrice Picard shared. “We seek to keep our seniors engaged, stimulated and active. Working with an artist to create something they’ll enjoy seeing on the walls every day was truly special!”
