Seeing Our Elders through the Eyes of an Artist at St John’s Primary School, Mullumbimby

The students at St John’s Primary School, Mullumbimby, are appreciating older people in a new way – through the eyes of an Artist. (25 March - 3 April)

St John’s Primary School, Mullumbimby, Stage 3 students celebrated NSW Seniors Week by painting portraits of their grandparents. The school recognised that this was a wonderful opportunity for students to recognise the value of having elderly relatives in their lives and to celebrate the contribution of elders within the community.

This exciting and novel event was facilitated by Social Futures. Social Futures Project Coordinator Heather Tannock believes that the project can help break down ageism.

‘By painting a portrait and talking to a senior in their life, the children will develop a new awareness of this person. It’s an exercise that creates understanding and promotes a positive image of senior people and constructive discussion with a younger generation,’ said Heather.

The Stage 3 students not only created the portrait, but they were asked to reflect on the qualities they saw in their elderly relatives by actively inquiring about their subject’s history and their life today.

‘It was heart-warming to hear the students speak of the kindness and love they receive from their grandparents. The students were also impressed by the skills their grandparents developed during their working lives and how they use these skills today,’ said Art Teacher Lisa Russell.

The Mullumbimby Library will exhibit the students’ paintings during Seniors’ Week, and people featured in the portraits will be in the library to talk about their roles in the community. There will also be resources available to support seniors.