Today, an exhibition of artwork by individuals living with early onset dementia will open at Ysbyty Alltwen, Tremadog. At a five day workshop held at Yr Ysgwrn in May, a group of younger people living with the condition were busy creating personal dioramas with the artist Luned Rhys Parri.
Using a photograph that was important to them as a background, the artworks were created using wire, paper, glue and paint. As well as giving the participants an opportunity to develop a new skill and interest, it also provided an opportunity for them to relax in a homely atmosphere with others living with dementia.
Jane Picken, who took part in the workshop with her husband said:
“John has dementia, and has found new things very challenging. It has been a pleasure to be involved in this scheme. It was fun-filled from the onset, and people with dementia need fun and plenty of social contact as dementia can be very isolating. We have also unearthed a hidden talent! The workshop has given us memories that will last for ever as well as a special piece of art.”
The workshop was organised by the Snowdonia National Park Authority with funding aid by Age Cymru, Spring Hope and Magnox’s socio-economic scheme. Martin Moore, Closure Director, Trawsfynydd Site explained:
“We were particularly delighted to support the Spring Hope art project as mental health and well-being is one of the priorities of the Magnox Equality, Diversity and Inclusion strategy. The Magnox funding supported five art workshops aimed at helping people to live well with early onset dementia in the local community.”
Carys Dafydd, the Park Authority’s Community Officer said:
“It has been a great privilege to be part of the Spring Hope project and seeing how everybody has benefited from the scheme. As an Authority we are keen to demonstrate that the Snowdonia National Park has an important role to play in promoting the health and well-being of its inhabitants”.
Following a period at Ysbyty Alltwen, the artworks will move on to Yr Ysgwrn and then Oriel Plas Glyn y Weddw, Llanbedrog, before taking their final place in the homes of the individuals who created them.
