Arts Access

Real and perceived barriers to art were addressed with this grant. We worked with two populations: assisted/memory care clients and economically disadvantaged clients. In both populations the participants were able to participate in arts (drum and rhythm circles) that they both thought they couldn't do and they did not have access to. Weekly and monthly drum circles were held, drums and rhythm instruments provided and the groups were facilitated in the process of making their own drum song. This project did not teach rhythms but encouraged the group to create their own. This alleviates the stress of having to perform. Evaluations were meetings with the activities directors from AftonRo and de-briefing with the participants at Bayview Terrace (Community Partners.) 2: This program of providing HealthRHYTHMS based drum programs for both Bayview Terrace in Two Harbors and Aftonro in Duluth provided much needed access to the arts for both populations. Bayview Terrace houses economically and physically disadvantaged adults. Many do not drive, have money to attend arts events, or are able to leave the premises. This population was extremely grateful for the opportunity to have music available to them and that they were able to actively participate. Aftonro is a facility for extended care and most of the residents do not leave the premises except for medical appointments. Many of the participants here expressed the need to have access to arts activities where they could actively participate rather than just listen. One 90 plus year old told us, Drumming is good for me.