We are a dynamic group of artists, healthcare professionals, academics and advocates engaging in creative projects with older adults aiming to change the way we view and experience aging in our community.
The Imagination Network was founded on the belief that—no matter our age—we can continue to contribute to our community. As we adapt to the conditions of aging, to cognitive, social or physical challenges, our communities need to adapt with us. The Imagination Network amplifies the voices of older citizens through cultural creation, public engagement, academic research and civic discourse to foster meaningful connections across sectors and transform how our society responds to aging, older age and dementia.
current project
Who Cares?
Who Cares? is a three-year community-based participatory research project study, funded by the Community College Social Innovation Fund (NSERC), is a partnership with Emily Carr University, Douglas College, and the Seniors’ Planning Table on the Sunshine Coast. The purpose of the project is to create, develop and evaluate an emergent model of elder care on the Sunshine Coast grounded in arts-based practices. An emergent model is an adaptive and relational leadership model that builds from the strength of relationships, connections, and networks. The results of this project will enable the community to use participatory arts-based practices to support elder care over the long term. By doing this, a greater number of people in the community will be engaged in elder care, relieving the existing pressure points in traditional health care settings.
past project
Raising The Curtain
exploring the lived experience of dementia
Raising the Curtain was a ground-breaking multi-year research project that blended Community Engaged Arts Practice with Community Based Participatory Research: part arts – part healthcare – part research and education. Between 2017 – 2022 we held creative workshops using a range of artistic mediums, exploring questions on the lived experience of dementia from the perspective of those living it. We produced art work, events, music, poetry and performances, while gathering rich research data, and shared this work with the wider community.
