Singapore artists have been engaging active seniors and those in physical and cognitive decline in a plethora of arts programmes. Aimed at increasing well-being, providing better relationships and exciting curiosity, these programmes have seniors wanting to engage with the arts in later life.
The Geragogy and the Arts Conference organized by Cultural Community Dimensions (CCD) and NAFA’s Centre for Lifelong Education between May- June 2024, brought together 8 artists from disciplines covering visual arts, drama, dance, music and storytelling to share their work and to establish principles of best practices. “The artists at the conference will show how their practice aligns to the Person-centered Pedagogical Framework for Arts Practices with Communities. It looks at the importance of engaging seniors in 4 dimensions – social, personal, cognitive and cultural as an active means of growth in the later years,” said Dr. Felicia Low, conference director.
This hybrid conference had online videos available to worldwide participants and an in-person session in Singapore, where a limited number of workshop spaces invited participants to interact with artists. It featured independent artists like storyteller Wong Swee Yean, community dance artist and arts entrepreneur Denise Leong, Catherine Sng, Founder of seniors’ drama group, The Glowers, visual artist Dr. Felicia Low and community theatre artist Peggy Ferroa. Joining them is NAFA alumnus Dr. Darius Lim, internationally published composer and award-winning conductor, as well as Ho Seok Kee, interdisciplinary artist and wellness coach and senior lecturer in dance, Dr. Filomar Tariao, both from NAFA.
This conference was targeted at artists, arts managers, center managers, senior caregivers, social workers, and anyone passionate about engaging seniors in the arts. “Singapore’s population is aging rapidly. By 2030, almost 1 in 4 Singaporeans will be over the age of 65. Ageing populations present unique challenges and opportunities, especially in the realm of education. As Singapore’s forefront institute for adult education in arts, design, and media, NAFA is committed to the urgent need of adapting teaching methodologies to meet the diverse learning needs of older adults.” said Dr Jeffery Tan, Dean of NAFA Centre for Lifelong Education.
A document of this conference proceedings and key points can be downloaded from :
https://www.academia.edu/124932794/Geragogy_and_the_Arts_Conference_A_Hybrid_Critical_Conference