The Life is Art project was a year long Inter-Generational arts based project in a long term care home in Victoria, BC, Canada.
Through arts based activities and story sharing, many pieces of art, poetry, story and song were created.
Songwriter Paul O'Brien who had been visiting the home to perform for some time worked with us to take inspiration from stories and experiences of seniors, family members and staff to write a professionally recorded album of songs. Juno nominated producer Joby Baker helped make this possible, and also spent a day giving us the experience of an on-site live recording session that was nothing short of pure magic. The album takes us on a journey beyond the walls of a care home and into the hearts of all who live, visit and work in the community.
All the activities in the project year were meant to build bridges, reduce isolation and celebrate individuals and creativity, and to dispel notions of ageism.
For the residents, a documentary film was created capturing many elements of the project. A limited edition book was printed for all who participated and the songs were performed by Paul at a special concert. Inside the home, an art gallery was created, song lyrics and photography were displayed, and a mural was created.
After the project year was completed, the artist in residence continued to work on-site, an art therapist also began working at the home, and the seventh mural in the home had been completed. The songs last forever and some have been known to be played all over the world.
