The Memory Collage Project: Art education with older adults

Abstract

The Memory Collage Project was an art experience for older adults that used the natural process of life review to inspire imagery to create a visual collage. Eighteen older adults, ages 62-94, were asked to reminisce about an experience they wanted to share with others in both a visual medium and a tape-recorded story. Using copies of their own photographs, Life magazines from the 50's and 60's, maps and other materials, memory collages were created in a one-hour session. The culminating event was an art exhibition that featured the storytelling of four of the participants. Participants were interviewed about their experience, which provided data for quantitative analysis. I also obtained data from observations of videotape footage that recorded my instruction and interactions, as well as the group dynamics throughout the production and at the closing exhibition. These data were coded to develop qualitative responses to my research questions. I examined the value of the lesson plan, specific teaching strategies and how I would adjust my current elementary teaching pedagogy to encourage participation from older adults. Curriculum has not been developed for older adults in the field of Art Education. Life expectancies are increasing, so there is a greater demand for educational opportunities in our later years. This thesis describes a studio project utilizing the process of life review and examines effective instruction and teaching strategies for an older population.