The Art of Ageing showcases held in Zimbabwe and The Gambia in February 2024 marked a monumental celebration of senior well-being, creativity, and societal contributions. These events were part of an initiative designed not only to highlight the artistic talents of older adults but also to foster a deeper societal appreciation for their experiences, wisdom, and health needs.
Purpose of the Art of Ageing Exhibitions
The primary purpose of these showcases was to celebrate ageing as a journey of resilience, creativity, and wisdom rather than simply a loss of youth. Senior citizens were invited to participate in a unique opportunity to express their ageing journeys through music, dance, poetry, and visual arts, reflecting a broad spectrum of personal experiences and emotions. Beyond the artistic aspect, the exhibitions aimed to raise awareness about critical health issues affecting the elderly. Many senior citizens face challenges related to health, mental well-being, and financial dependency, and these showcases offered a powerful platform for them to share their stories and advocate for better support. The events also aimed to challenge ageism, fostering a society that values and respects older adults as integral, contributing members.
Attendance
The exhibitions attracted a diverse audience, including participants over the age of 60, health professionals, policy makers, government representatives, and stakeholders committed to improving the lives of older adults. In Zimbabwe, the Nhaka Gallery in Harare hosted over 200 artistic entries, with 16 exceptional works selected for final display. The Gambia similarly saw participation from a variety of sectors, with enthusiastic involvement from the artistic and health communities, as well as younger audiences eager to learn from their elders’ life experiences.
Healthcare professionals played a vital role, using the event as an opportunity to better understand the health issues faced by older people, including mental health challenges like depression. Professor Celia Gregson highlighted the importance of young people understanding the ageing experience, hoping that greater empathy would lead to a prioritization of elderly healthcare. In Zimbabwe, Senior Citizens Group led by guitarist and composer Noah Langa performed a song addressing the joys and hardships of ageing, while landscape artist Francis offered his work, "The Wonders of Ageing," to draw parallels between the natural beauty of Victoria Falls and the ageing process, underscoring the need for respectful treatment of both young and old alike.
Takeaways from the Art of Ageing Showcases
The Art of Ageing exhibitions offered several critical takeaways. First, they underscored the immense value and wisdom that older adults bring to society, shifting perceptions of ageing from a period of decline to a stage of continued growth and contribution. Another key takeaway was the advocacy component of these events. Through their artwork and performances, senior participants voiced their needs, which ranged from mental health support to financial stability, and directly raised awareness among healthcare workers, policy makers, and government officials.
As one of the attendees, Dr Mandi Tembo, mentioned, “This competition provided an opportunity for them to tell their stories... advocating for better healthcare.” By publicly addressing their challenges, the seniors ignited conversations around creating a more supportive infrastructure for their well-being.
The exhibitions also promoted intergenerational empathy. Professor Celia Gregson emphasized the need for younger people to "see the youth within each person," encouraging society to treat older adults with the same respect and appreciation as younger individuals. This shift in perspective can inspire more inclusive communities and policies, allowing older adults to age well with dignity and fulfillment.
In summary, the Art of Ageing exhibitions in Zimbabwe and The Gambia successfully showcased the richness and diversity of older adults' lives. They brought together different generations and professionals, spurred vital conversations around elder care, and transformed societal views on ageing. By highlighting the creative expressions and needs of seniors, these events celebrated the resilience, spirit, and ongoing contributions of the elderly, fostering a more inclusive approach to health and societal support.
The Art of Ageing Showcases In Pictures
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