WATCH: Celebrate Arts & Aging Exhibition Showcases the Creative Spirit of Older Adults
PCA’s 23rd annual Celebrate Arts & Aging Exhibition, celebrating creativity and self-expression among older adults, was recently featured on 6abc’s Art of Aging segment, a news series that connects older adults with community resources. This year’s showcase features more than 170 works across a wide range of mediums including oil paintings, acrylics, and photography, with artists ranging in age from 57 to 100.
Wanda Mitchell, PCA’s Director of Community Engagement, emphasized the importance of art in improving mental health and reducing social isolation among older adults. “It’s an opportunity for our older adults to really just be creative and express themselves,” said Mitchell.
Ronald Lee Washington, this year’s signature artist, presents two works that explore everyday life and societal themes with a sense of hope. “I feel honored,” said Washington, adding that his painting Lunch Break captures daily experience, while Face Value examines alienation in modern society.
Suzanna Urminska, Curator of Exhibits at the Free Library of Philadelphia, called the partnership with PCA “a privilege” and noted the inspiration she finds each year in the diversity of artistic expression. “Creative practice is such a lifeblood for communities of all ages,” said Urminska.
The event features both first-time exhibitors and longtime contributors like artist and poet Ikru Warmaneazy, a PCA participant since 2004, who contributed The Jazz Musicians to this year’s exhibition.
The exhibition runs through May 31 at the Free Library of Philadelphia’s Parkway Central Library, the South Philadelphia Older Adult Center, and Center on the Hill in Chestnut Hill. The full exhibit can also be viewed online at PCACares.org/art.
WATCH: Art of Aging: Annual older adult art exhibition on view through May.
