Art Heals – Opening Minds through Art 2020, Season 4

Opening Minds through Art (OMA) is a program founded on the fact that people who are living with dementia are highly capable of creative expression — in this case, visual art.  Inspired by abstract artists, OMA was developed by Dr. Like Lokon at the Scripps Gerontology Center at Miami University in Ohio.  The program has been offered at Goddard House for the past four years.

As our OMA team hung these 55 pieces of artwork for Goddard House residents and staff, we took part in an act of restoration. We were not only restoring Gallery M with these delightful colorful, forms – the results of talent, imagination and collaboration with Olmsted Place artists. We were restoring our spirits. Essential qualities of the OMA program: creativity, community, joy and humor, were coaxed forward. The impact of Coronavirus has left us wanting for these wherever they can be found. They quickly make their way back into our hearts and minds through art. Art heals.  

The OMA 4 group of artists began working together in October 2019 and ended in March 2020 when the pandemic put some groups on hold. We dedicate this show to them, with heart-felt remembrance to those we have lost.  

OMA 4 featured artists include Carolin Catalano, Susan Fialkin, Doris Girton and Trish Manly.  

OMA 4 visiting artists, who participated occasionally, included Louise Kurash, Susan Land, Lyn Liberman and Drew Reinhardt.  A few group pieces, from summer 2019, include the work of Arlane Lally and Walter Van Dorn. 

Special thanks to OMA assistants, Lesley University Expressive Therapies interns: Lauren Adams and Silvina Ibanez; volunteers: Margery David and Laura Newbold; and Goddard House resident volunteer: Bridgina Benson.