Tucson, AZ – May 23, 2013 – Via Elegante Luxury Assisted Living at La Cholla is hosting an arts event completely unique to the Tucson arts community. On Thursday June 6th, from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, Via Elegante, in partnership with Harmony Hospice, proudly presents: “Art from the Heart”, an art show and fundraiser to benefit the Hospice Charitable Fund of Central Arizona, a 501(c)(3) foundation. This amazing charitable fund helps grant hospice patients’ final wishes, family housing, special outings and trips, and so much more.
All works of art have been created by the “Artisans Elegante” collaborative art group of Via Elegante. The group is facilitated by Stephanie Sikora, whose collaborative arts program has been used in both assisted living and memory care facilities. Collaborative art for older adults celebrates uniqueness and emphasizes communication. This type of learning and personal growth through creativity is a vision that has developed over the last eight years for Stephanie.
Collaborative art is a process, and quite often projects can span over several weeks. It is a combination of efforts rooted in personal interest, discussion, decision-making, and doing. It is amazing to watch these artists work together on a project that creates unique and individual art pieces. Exercising personal choice is paramount in this group–even down to how a piece of work should be displayed. The program model builds community and insists on individuality and personal expression.
Stephanie stated, “Every student has strengths to bring to the table. One person may be great at color mixing, another at layout, and another at imagination that will help develop a theme. Formal art training is not required. It’s my job to help identify their strengths and energy and harmonize these for meaningful interactions. The artistic outcome almost becomes secondary. When Mimi first joined the group she complained about being bored, missing home, and was not very confident of her talents. Now, almost two years later, she is a prolific artist who is no longer bored and feels very proud of her accomplishments. Jane has years of artistic experience, yet was hungry for new experiences. Jo also attends weekly with her caregiver. She has limited use of one hand, but each activity is adapted to her needs, or her role on the collaborative team is adapted so she can participate.”
Harmony Hospice is proud to be a part of this unique and exciting venture with Via Elegante Assisted Living. Please join us at the Via Elegante Galleria Home, 5643 N. Via Latigo, Tucson, AZ 85704, to view or purchase these amazing pieces of art. Wine and hors d’oeuvres will be served.
