By Cliff McBride, University Communications and Marketing
A healing arts class at USF St. Petersburg is helping students understand the therapeutic methods of interacting with art for people with memory loss.
The Art in Mind collaboration between USF's Judy Genshaft Honors College and the James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art allows students to see firsthand how these interactions can benefit individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
As part of the class, the James Museum invites those experiencing memory loss, including those in assisted living facilities from the Tampa Bay area, to take Art in Mind tours hosted by students and museum docents working together in an intergenerational team. The tours include particular methods of engaging with art that can help participants access and express memories, improve communication skills, externalize emotions, relieve stress and promote positive feelings. In addition to getting practical experience for future careers, the James Museum hopes that students will return to serve as volunteer docents and help continue the unique Art in Mind program.
Since this partnership began, hundreds of community members have taken part and 56 students have participated as docents. Through a grant from the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation, the program is free for participants, increasing access and allowing the Art in Mind program to expand to new audiences. This year, the museum has hosted veterans as well as children with traumatic brain injuries, who can also benefit from the therapeutic tours.