Gualala Arts Lecture Series presents:
Alzheimer Artists

with S. Micheal Pope

Monday, October 2, 7:00 p.m.
$5 donation requested

Gualala Arts and Alzheimer's Services of the East Bay (ASEB) will provide an opportunity to learn about Alzheimer's disease and related dementias in a lecture by S. Micheal Pope on Alzheimer Artists from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. on Monday, October 2.

In a related activity, the Gualala Arts 2006 Exhibit Committee is hosting an interesting exhibit of Alzheimers Art in the Elaine Jacob Foyer from Saturday, September 9 through Monday, October 2. The opening day reception from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. will introduce the viewer to works created by artists with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.

This art program sponsored by ASEB provides a means of expression through both drawings and painting regardless of the artist's prior training. Each piece reflects the individual style of the artist, but all artists with Alzheimer's disease go through a phase where the artwork consists mostly of dots or broken lines, reminiscent of the "pointillism" made famous by George Seurat.

Unlike the art of most mentally ill painters, which often expresses anger, frustration, or rebellion, the work of Alzheimer artists is generally cheerful, benign, and even whimsical. Common images include trees, animals, and houses and reflect a happier period from their past.

Although the subject matter and color choices may seem childlike at first, the Alzheimer artist brings a more complex and sophisticated perspective that draws on an adult's life experiences. This program provides an avenue of expression for individuals who find themselves growing more isolated by their affliction.

To learn more about the work of ASEB and its services for both the victims of Alzheimer's and for their caregivers, access their website - www.aseb.org.

Located at 46501 Old State Highway in Gualala, the Arts Center is open weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, and weekends from noon to 4 pm. Please call (707) 884-1138 for more information.