Arts Space in San Francisco Awakens Seniors' Human Potential


The artist's world is limitless. It can be found anywhere, far from where he lives or a few feet away. It is always on his doorstep. Paul Strand

Residents and neighbours of the Bethany Center Senior Housing in San Francisco have been engage in a successful artistic pursuit at Ruth’s Table, a creative space for art, music, film and poetry. Seniors and all generations are participants.

Margie Ramirez, a Bethany resident told The Bay Citizen: “It makes me feel young.” Ramirez is regularly involved in films, lectures, art shows, and craft workshops. “It’s always something new and exciting,” she told the media source.

Lola Fraknoi, program director for Ruth’s Table, spoke with the media source, quoting  Gene D. Cohen, a pioneer in the field of art and aging, and author of The Creative Age: Awakening Human Potential in the Second Half of Life. “Art is chocolate for the brain,” she said.

“I cannot change the aging process or their relationship with their sons or daughters,” Fraknoi told The Bay Citizen. “But I can change their environment.”

The center also features exhibits. In 2012, Ruth’s Table will have exhibitions by Latino and Chinese artist, cultures that are highly represented.

The various forms of arts are commonly used with residents in Active Lifestyle and Independent Living residences.

 

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