Art at the Monte
Sydney’s Sir Moses Montefiore Jewish Home will showcase the artistic endeavours of some of its residents.
Joy Schoenheimer shows her creations
Art and creativity are for everyone regardless of age. In fact, creative ageing has been highlighted as a key initiative for the future of aged care by Margret Meagher, Executive Director of Arts and Health Australia and Jillian Skinner, NSW Minister for Health at the International Creative Ageing Conference.
They both point to key benefits that can include self-discovery, emotional catharsis, and personal fulfilment as important improvements to a person’s overall health. At Sir Moses Montefiore Jewish Home the majority of residents who participate in the creative programs come without a background in art, but all have a strong desire to be engaged in the creative process.
To highlight and showcase some of the resident’s art, Montefiore will be displaying work from ceramic artists in residence including, Joy Schoenheimer, Gisella Scheinberg, Paul de Leuil and Shirley Hessen. Their work will be displayed in the foyer of Montefiore’s Randwick Campus from 20th October to 27th October. The creations reveal that by continuing their hobbies, residents can still flourish at any stage of their lives.
“There is nothing more fulfilling for oneself than to create an art piece where one can stand back, look at it and say, ‘I really made that,’” says Joy Schoenheimer.
“Art does not need to be intimidating or scary, it should be fun,” says Shirley Hessen.
Montefiore’s creative arts program has touched the lives of many of our elderly Jewish friends and family. It provides purpose, creative expression and a heightened sense of dignity when residents need it most.
The exhibition is open to the public for viewing at Montefiore Home, 36 Dangar Street Randwick.
