To See and Be Seen

What, exactly, will be on view at Judson Park during its upcoming art show?

Take it from Cathy Bryan, creative arts therapy coordinator for Judson’s senior living communities: It’ll be a whole lot more than mere colors, shapes and lines.

The annual Community Expressions exhibit at the Streeter Gallery opens at 4:30pm on Friday, April 24, and draws upon the talents of residents, family members, staff, student interns and volunteers alike. This inclusiveness is intentional: Bryan firmly believes that making art is a form of expression that can expose feelings, give pleasure and build a sense of belonging.

“This show brings together people from all parts of our campus, and it serves as a way we can make ourselves known to one another,” says Bryan. “For all of us, but especially for our nonverbal residents, art is a way we can reveal ourselves to others. It’s amazing to overhear the conversations during the show. ‘I had no idea you could do that. I had no idea that’s who you are!’”

Beth Majewski is one of the Judson associates taking part in this year’s show. Although she has no formal art training, Majewski understands that credentials are beside the point. “I don’t really think of myself as an artist,” she admits. “But Cathy [Bryan] is persuasive in asserting that everyone shares the need to create. By taking part in the show, I feel that I am opening myself up. I’m helping people understand that there is more to me than meets the eye. And it certainly gives you a whole new perspective on the people you work with!”

Associate Terre Maher also will be among the exhibitors. A self-described introvert, Terre says that, for her, the show is an opportunity to become known. “It lets us see each other—see more of each other than what we see in our everyday lives.”

As an arts educator, therapist and counselor, Bryan is masterful at helping Judson residents explore their inner artist and develop their talents. “Anyone who walks into the studio,” says Majewski, “walks out with a feeling of enhanced dignity and accomplishment.”

That was a primary motivator in Majewski’s decision to take part in the show.

“I watch Cathy doing this beautiful dance, and the way that people leave the studio feeling great about themselves. And I just decided: I want a piece of that too!”

 

COMMUNITY EXPRESSIONS | APRIL 24-JULY 15

ARTIST TALK 4:30PM FRIDAY, APRIL 24 | AUDRA L. ROSE CREATIVE ARTS STUDIO

RECEPTION 5-6PM | 6th FLOOR COMMONS

 

George A. Streeter Gallery

Judson Park, Sixth Floor Commons

2181 Ambleside Dr.

Cleveland, Ohio

216.791.2987

cbryan@judsonsmartliving.org