​Testimonials:

 

 “I do not think that I have ever read a better documentation of the evolution, research, and rationale for practice in the area of creative aging, health, and wellness.  It is a must have for anyone interested in providing excellent care and service for elders.  Its thoughtful approach addresses the background, need, and purpose of this important work — bringing joy and comfort coupled with potential through creative expression that ties back to our deepest roots in folklife traditions.  The guide lets the sun shine into some of life’s darkest times.” 
 

~ Gay Hanna, Ph.D., MFA, Executive Director Emerita, National Center for Creative Aging, Washington, D.C.

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“In a myriad of ways, the Art for Life Program has proven to be both ground-breaking and extraordinary.  We who live in North Dakota are privileged to have a front-row seat as we witness how the arts can enhance, transform, and uplift all our lives.”
 

~ Dr. Timothy J. Kloberdanz, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, North Dakota State University

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“This book and its associated materials comprise a highly practical and inspiring resource for anyone engaged in programming with older adults.  It provides compelling arguments, theoretical underpinnings, and evidence supporting the power of art to advance wellbeing and healing.  Detailed lesson plans that promote cross-disciplinary collaborations, powerful testimonies, and use of a wide variety of art genres that intertwine folk and fine cultural expressions as well as traditional and western medical perspectives all represent a major contribution to multiple fields.  We see this volume becoming a standard text for educators, artists/educators, therapists, other health care providers, and policymakers.”
 

~ Marsha MacDowell, Ph.D., Curator and Professor of Art, Michigan State University Museum, and Clare Luz, Ph.D., College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University; co-authors Quilts and Health

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“Drawing from nearly two decades of work with seniors, this guide distills the research that underpins the North Dakota Council on the Arts’ successful arts and aging program, and shares the methods and materials needed to implement their approach.  Recognizing the significant role cultural knowledge and traditions play in the aging process, this text has the potential to transform how we care for older generations.”
 

~ Jon Kay, Director of Traditional Arts Indiana, Mathers Museum of World Cultures; author Folk Art & Aging

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“With lots of wrinkles, few words and memory failing, they sit in a room with a nurse.  What should we do for boredom, loneliness, and helplessness?  This text points the way.  For restoration and new beginnings, let’s start brightening their day with tools like creativity, love, and activities that are embedded in our culture.”
 

~ Parul Gupta, M.D., Director of Elder Care Program, Essentia Health, Grand Forks, ND

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“My experiences as an artist in the Art for Life Program have been some of the most meaningful in my life.  Witnessing an elder engage with the material, whether painting, stories, or simple conversation, is enough to bring me to tears.  This program allows elders to continue living with grace, integrity, and gentleness at a time when they are at their most vulnerable.”
 

~ Pieper Bloomquist, BSN, Registered Nurse, Altru Hospital, and Artist, Grand Forks, ND