Thursday 28 April 2011

The use of Blogging for personal thoughts and processes...

I will be using this blog as a device for thought processes and further developments into the project 'Enriching life with Creative Expression'.
I have recently ordered a batch of books which will enhance my outlook onto such a topic....

How others will benefit from my project....

On my return i intend to deliver dissemination events across the UK via the National Forum for Arts and Health, facilitating knowledge transfer. This experience will enhance international developments and the potential for Arts for Health in the UK. After observing and evaluating the workshops in America i aim to implement the positive processes on my return to raise public awareness.
Personally, this project would benefit me significantly. Travelling and researching across America would help my specialism in dementia, providing and developing my cultural awareness. The Churchill Fellowship would give me academic credit which will enhance and compliment my future career. Not to mention the independence and self motivation i would gain whilst in the USA. To be a churchill fellow would enrich my life, gaining the extra knowledge i need to improve the lives of those with dementia and to promote Arts and Health back in the UK.

How i will carry out the project....

I hope to visit the NCCA previously directed by Dr Gene Cohen by networking with Anne Basting, an author and the current director, to gain research supporting these areas. Alongside this i have formulated connections with the Museum of Modern Art in New York where the programme 'Meet me at MOMA' influences the daily lives of those with dementia. To understand the processes and benefits of these classes i will volunteer to help and coordinate activities that take place. With this i wish to expand my knowledge of the arts in general. Storycorps, an organisation where those with dementia can openly tell stories of their lives will highlight existing creative practice, from music to drama.
Together with this research i will consider and contrast the Alzheimer's Association and Society reflecting on relevant information in these areas.

Background of Project...

Dr Gene Cohen the founder of the National Centre of Creative Aging (NCCA) suggests that as cognitive ability deteriorates with dementia, creative inhibitions increase, enabling new ways of communication through creative engagement. Dementia is predicted to double in the next decade, with the arts to be seen as a powerful vehicle, providing rich life opportunities for people affected by dementia.

Winston Churcill Memorial Trust - Travelling Fellowship!!

I have been awarded a Winston Churchill Memorial Trust - Travelling Fellowship!!

The name for my proposed project is 'Enriching Life with Creative Expression' which aims to develop my knowledge along with the UK's into how the arts can influence and promote positive well-being for those with various types of Dementia. I decided to develop this understanding in the US due to their extended research and development in comparison to the UK.