McCormick Resource Centre
McCormick Home resident Donna Lackey proudly shares her contribution to the Art and Soul exhibit, which features work from participants in the Home’s art therapy program.
Each year, McCormick Home holds the “Art and Soul” show, displaying the impressive work created by residents in the Home’s art therapy program. For participants, the experience not only engages various motor and cognitive skills, but also enhances their sense of creativity, self-worth, confidence and purpose.
“Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy where a person expresses an emotion through the creation of art,” says Emily McIntosh, art therapist for both McCormick Home and McCormick Dementia Services.
The art therapy program is delivered by professional art therapists and is funded through donations to the McCormick Care Foundation.
“It can sometimes take a significant effort for an individual to connect through their art, but the results have shown an incredible effect on a person’s emotional well-being,” says Lynne Ryckman, Director of the Foundation.
Regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities, everyone is welcome to participate. For most members, this is the first time they have had a chance to engage in art for expression and enjoyment.
“We’re less about the end product and more about the process of creating the artwork and the meaning behind it,” adds Emily.
Art is Art
The Home’s latest Art and Soul exhibit opened on May 25, 2018, and included remarks from art therapists Wanda Sawicki and Emily McIntosh (pictured at right).
At the event, McCormick Home resident Alison S. also shared some thoughts on her personal experience with the art therapy program: “Art is such a relaxing activity… it just comes out of me. It’s fun to be creative and see my finished product. When I’m creating something, there is a personal expression involved.”
Alison adds, “Emily and Wanda emphasize that ‘art is art.’ That’s what makes it special.”
