August 13th, 2026Bigger Hearts & Arts

Since March, the Bigger Hearts Dementia Alliance Ballarat has provided the opportunity for 15 people from Creswick and surrounds district, to come together on a weekly basis in Creswick to participate in Art Escape 2026.

Art Escape is a program funded by the Community Bank Creswick & District, to enable people living with dementia to enjoy painting, socialising and each other’s company. Local Dementia Alliance secretary Glenda Hipwell said that without this support the arts program would not have taken place.
“We are so grateful to the community bank as it has enabled 15 people living with dementia to enjoy this weekly outlet for their creativity. Coming together in this way the participants have been able to find different pathways to express their feelings,” Glenda said.
Glenda said the goals of Art Escape 2026 were to improve the life and wellbeing of people living with dementia and their families.
“The Bigger Hearts Dementia Alliance Ballarat provides a number of innovative, creative and fun programs including Art Escape 2026 and the weekly Singing Circle in Ballarat. Each program allows participants to express themselves in different ways, reducing anxiety and improving their overall wellbeing.
“Reminiscing is so important and by singing well-loved songs, or painting past events that have, perhaps, been significant in their lives, participants’ mood and self-esteem is boosted and their sense of identity restored.”
While most participants come from Creswick and Ballarat, one participant comes from Moonambel, a round trip of 150 kilometres. Her husband drives her to Creswick for every lesson and she has not missed one.
The culmination of this six-month program is an exhibition of the participants’ art works which will be on show at Art on Albert in Creswick for September.
Gallery convenor Julie Reed said she was delighted the art would be on display and for sale. “This is exactly what the gallery is for – to showcase local artists’ work, including the 15 students, and to make the work accessible to the community.”
Local artist Chris Dobson, pictured standing with participant Julie, runs the weekly programs teaching painting techniques, theory and helping everyone get their works ready for the exhibition.
The next step for Glenda Hipwell is to try and source on-going funding for Art Escape. “The six-month program has made such a difference to the lives of the participants. It would be great if the program could continue into the future.”
Words & image: Fiona Watson