Creating Community: Mediations in Art is being offered in Rockport, beginning May 14. The free 6-week expressive arts program is designed specifically to engage older adults (50+) in expressive arts techniques that promote health and wellbeing, community connection and internal calm. Through weekly gatherings participants will learn a variety of expressive arts techniques that support overall health and wellbeing in a fun and relaxing atmosphere, according to Barbara Davis, in a news release. No art making experience or training is required. All materials will be provided.

The program is a part of Maine Creates, which is a statewide pilot initiative that brings people together through the arts to strengthen connection, creativity, and wellbeing, according to Davis. Teaching artists are trained, mentored, and supported to design and lead inclusive, community-based projects that reduce isolation and expand access to meaningful creative experiences for people of all ages. Through a partnership between Side x Side and the Maine Arts Commission—an independent state agency supported by the National Endowment for the Arts—eight artists are implementing projects across the state designed to be accessible to all participants.

"The initiative strengthens teaching artistry, builds professional networks, and increases artists’ capacity to lead impactful community programs statewide," said Davis.

Classes will be held at the PenBay YMCA in Rockport on Thursday afternoons, from 1 - 2:30 p.m., starting on May 14. Registration through the YMCA website (under Senior Programs) or by stopping in. For more information email BarbaraDavisLCSW@gmail.com

Barbara Davis, MSW, MFA, REAT, LCSW, is a therapist, artist, and educator with degrees from RISD and Rutgers University. She discovered the healing power of the arts as a teenager and has since dedicated her career to exploring its benefits for mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.