Artists in Residence at BaptistCare

BaptistCare Warabrook Centre has become the latest art space for the Newcastle region as it played host to the inaugural BaptistCare Warabrook Centre Art Exhibition, which opened earlier this month.

On display were 30 fresh new artworks created by the aged care centre’s residents, care team members and staff from across BaptistCare, including the organisation’s CEO.

The opening night saw prizes awarded for still life, abstract, and landscape pieces, with the first ever Warabrook Art Shield awarded to resident Dulcie Jackson, as the overall winner for her artwork, ‘Little House on the Hill’.

The exhibition was the culmination of six months of collaboration between BaptistCare Warabrook’s care team and Novocastrian artist, Ann Bertram, who came together to deliver the art therapy program.

“It has been a very interesting experience for me, and something totally different to anything I’ve ever done before,” says Ms Bertram.

“The classes ran fortnightly from April, so I have spent time getting to know each of the residents. You can tell those who had experience from before; [the residents] amazed themselves at what they could do,” she said.

During their time together, an engaged and active art community has grown among the participating residents who live at BaptistCare’s Warabrook Centre.

For the care team, the art program has had visible results for residents, with positive impacts on their emotional and physical selves.

“Art Therapy has a number of key benefits for participants. It can help alleviate anxiety and depression; help reduce agitation and isolation; as well as help improve motor skills and maintain cognitive abilities,” says Lynne Bond, Diversional Therapist at BaptistCare Warabrook Centre.

“The project has given our residents new skills, as well as encouraged further socialising and interaction between residents as they work creatively together, sharing new challenges.”

“It also allows our residents the chance to share memories as they reminisce together in a group. It’s beautiful to see that new friendships have been formed among the residents,” said Ms Bond.

BaptistCare Warabrook Centre chaplain, Kevin Warner, was both MC and auctioneer for the night. Eighteen original works were snapped up by the bidders, with further items sold through a silent auction. Proceeds will be split between ongoing art programs and other activities for Warabrook residents, as well as supporting a Christmas appeal for children in need.

The BaptistCare Warabrook Centre Art Therapy Program and Art Exhibition will become an annual event.

Find out more about BaptistCare. 

Pictured: Lorna Cook, trophy winner for her abstract artwork, 'Happy Times'