Broken Wings No. 7
Intergenerational Healing Art
A collaborative work with Evergreen Terrace Assisted Living, the local community, and artist Pamela Alderman
Monarch butterflies migrate from Canada to Mexico every autumn. Millions of delicate butterflies complete the dangerous, 3,000 mile journey in spite of severe weather, pesticides, and habitat loss. On the first day of this project, while sponge-painting with the third-graders from Brookside Elementary School, we discussed the butterflies’ journey and how, like the monarchs, each of us needs to be resilient as we push through many obstacles in life.
Scientists believe the butterflies have some sort of internal mechanism that guides them to the Sierra Madre Mountains. Some butterflies even end up on the same exact trees where their ancestors roosted. For day two, while painting with multiple ages from Lighthouse Homeschool Co-op, we talked about following our own internal compass and making wise choices.
Allied Health high school students from Mecosta-Osceola Career Center gathered to help tear the sponge-painted papers over the next two days. Then we glued the torn pieces into butterfly designs. The collective process of this artwork, which included the Evergreen Terrace residents, family members, and these various community groups, portrayed the butterfly’s life cycle and our need for community in order to flourish.
Throughout the winter, the monarchs huddle together on the trees to stay warm. They need one another for survival. Likewise, throughout our intergenerational art project, we experienced the power of engagement within a loving community. Such connections can help heal our deepest wounds. Healing releases hope, and we gain a new sense of strength to weather life’s uncertainties and to complete the journey.
Are you interested in exploring creative possibilities for your senior retirement community? Contact Pamela.
