5th April 2017
Older people in Windermere have been given the chance to inspire the younger generation and share their skills thanks to an inter-generational project.
A grant of £1,000 from the Holehird Trust enabled Kendal Windows on Art to run a series of artist supported community workshops providing creative opportunities for older people to meet and work with local children.
Participants old and young worked together to design and produce a collaborative quilt artwork which was inspired by their conversations about shared interests and childhood memories.
The activities encouraged older people to get out and about more and help tackle social isolation. Many of the older people who participated in the project do not have grandchildren living nearby and miss the opportunity to meet with children locally.
Nicola Smith, Secretary for Kendal Windows on Art, said: “Older people were keen to pass on their sewing skills to the younger generation. In addition to learning valuable textile skills, children have developed their empathy skills, thinking about what it was like for the older people when they were children. They were amazed to hear that most of the older people hadn’t owned a bicycle when they were younger!
“Both generations are excited that their work will be seen by the wider community as the collaborative quilt artwork will be exhibited in Kendal Library. Everyone is eager to continue working together now the project has come to an end, which will help build on the community links that have been established.”