News

We love to work with other museums! And we love to share what we learned together.

Artful Moments: Shared Learning newsfeed will share stories about our work with other galleries, museums, historic sites and outdoor spaces. We’ll share new experiences along with news about programs at the Art Gallery of Hamilton.

Let’s continue to learn together.

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Creating a Sensory Oasis

Creating a sensory oasis. Galleries and museums are often thought of as places of quiet contemplation and cultural appreciation. But for people living with dementia, they can be something even more profound: a sensory oasis. Thoughtfully designed museum environments can cater to the unique sensory needs of people with dementia,

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Dementia and the power of art.

Did You Know? Dementia and The Power of Art

Did you know? In 2011, the Art Gallery of Hamilton (AGH) created Artful Moments. Our purpose was to provide people living with dementia and their family and friend with an inclusive, engaging, and stimulating experience through art. Over the years, we have discovered some interesting facts about dementia and how

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Stages of Dementia. A couple explores an art gallery together.

Review of Artful Moments from Dementia Trust

Artful Moments: Shared Learning was recently reviewed by Dementia Trust in Edinburgh, who called it “a must-explore programme + resource”. Dementia Trust adviser Sonia Mangan offers a compelling review of this research-based approach, that emphasises the art of the possible and encourages creative engagement. We are thrilled to have reached

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Free art program becomes lifeline for Hamilton cancer patients.

Free art program becomes lifeline for Hamilton cancer patients

A room at the Art Gallery of Hamilton is alive with bursts of conversation and laughter as 20 people follow an instructor helping them navigate brush strokes for their individual still life exercises. Wendy Debicki, 71, is one of the animated painters, and she’s joined by her friend and caregiver,

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Participants talking about artwork.

Change the Language, Change the Perception

Change the Language, Change the Perception: September is World Alzheimer’s Month, and as we continue supporting international initiatives to improve awareness and positive changes for people living with dementia, we consider how they are affected by how we talk to them and about them.

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Artful Moments - A woman paints at an easle, with a friend helping her.

Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month in Canada. The month aims toraise awareness and challenge the stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s and dementia. As our communities age, we see the impact of dementia andt he stigma that surrounds it becoming ever more widespread in Canada.

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Artful Moments - Laurie acts out a pose to help participants better understand her description of this artwork, La Pienture.

How Art Triggers Memories and Conversations in Dementia Care

How Art Triggers Memories and Conversations in Dementia Care: Art has the profound ability to awaken memories and stimulate conversations, including in people living with dementia. Familiar artwork or themes often serve as powerful catalysts, unlocking recollections that may otherwise remain dormant. Through the simple act of viewing or creating

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AGH Dementia Survey Results.

AGH Dementia Survey Results

In December 2021 the Art Gallery of Hamilton conducted an online survey of museums, galleries and other cultural organizations across Canada in preparation for a large project.

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