Of critical importance to me is the philosophy of “paying it forward” as I teach drawing classes for community seniors ages fifty-five and above with no previous drawing experiences. In working with the senior population for many years, I can validate that seniors involved in the arts through class and varied experiences, will gain skills that:
- Provide creative and effective means to increase individual self-esteem
- Develop critical thinking
- Increase individual self-esteem
- Provide an avenue for individual expression
- Encourage social interactions
- Reflect life experiences
- Strengthen the ability to focus and retain memory
