I was invited to observe and take part in Milwaukee Public Museum's SPARK program - for individuals with early onset memory loss. As all the programs i have previously observed have been in either Art Institutions or galleries or day center's encouraging Art - this was to be a new experience of engagement.
I spoke to Dawn Kojeca, the programs facilitator at the beginning of the session to find more out about how it is designed and used as an intellectual tool for these adults. Dawn mentioned that this program is always popular and they have to turn some people away...and out of all the programs i have seen so far, they have more emphasis on the families and carer relationships too...
The program began and we visited 'India, Alaska, China and Asia', viewing exhibits in the Public Museum. Artefacts were handed out for the participants to hold which acted as the sensory part (normally found within the SPARK Art programs). Artefacts were very varied from Textiles to ceramics to basketry and food. The provided a talking point for the individuals and it helped the connection between the country (ie/India) and themselves..
I spoke to many families who took part in the program - but one lady mentioned:
'Me and my Mom come to SPARK as it is a way of travelling to new places without the anxiety and confusion caused by getting on an Aeroplane - we still get to visit India, but in a different way'. - This quote really captures what the Public Museum really sets out to do...
Various Intellectual conversations work in different ways for numerous people - so some elderly adults may prefer the Public Museum and some the Art Museum. The choice is certainly there in Milwaukee, and the collaboration between the partners of SPARK are strong and flexible to meet the needs of their target audience...
TRULY INSPIRING...
