Artwork creating connections through the generations

Artwork from across the generations is adorning Merriwa Estate thanks to a new intergenerational art initiative which has been spearheaded by the estate’s Retirement Wellbeing Officer, Suzanne Free, with support from Goodstart Early Learning Merriwa.

Children from local kindergarten Goodstart have been providing the estate with pictures and paintings which are being displayed for all to see at the estate’s arcade. “The children are providing a great sense of community and connection for the residents, particularly with COVID restrictions in place. The hope is that the art on view will lift everyone’s spirits,” says Suzanne.

“Our residents also continue to produce art and, with many talented artists residing on our estate, the intergenerational art initiative is an ideal opportunity for our seniors’ work to be admired and enjoyed by the children.”Suzanne says when it is safe to do so, the hope is for an interactive intergeneration playgroup to be started in partnership with the kindergarten, where elders and children can participate in simple art projects together and also share stories.

“As an intergenerational playgroup is not possible at the moment, our art partnership with the kindergarten is enabling the children to also benefit by viewing the artworks from our elders, which is provided in tandem with a brief summary about individual residents and also their photo. We feel this enables a personal connection and reminds the children that expression through art of any kind can be enjoyed throughout a person’s lifetime, as well as being refined and developed with age and experience.”

Stop Press: A special mention too to Pam White, who has been a great contributor to this art project, but was unable to attend our photo shoot.