Senior Smiles
the project
More Than an Arts Program
Senior Smiles is our year-round initiative supporting the well-being of economically-disadvantaged, disabled seniors in Austin. We provide (free) group arts classes, led by professional artists in different mediums, to residents onsite in low-income retirement and nursing facilities. The program culminates in our annual Senior Smiles Art Exhibition, a public event featuring (and celebrating!) participants and their artwork.
More than an arts program, Senior Smiles is a meaningful, community-focused endeavor promoting intergenerational social connection, volunteerism, and community engagement. The program incorporates outreach activities to generate more public awareness about the needs of seniors and inspire more people to participate in service projects benefiting our local seniors.
Make Art with Seniors
We invite members of the public to participate and make art with local seniors during our group arts classes at select care facilities. These visits are a refreshing break from the routine and an opportunity for seniors to connect with members of the outside community.
(No previous arts experience necessary.)
Become a Partner Facility
We partner with long-term senior care facilities in the Austin area, including nursing homes, retirement centers, and skilled nursing wings, to provide in-person group arts classes to low-income and disabled senior residents.
Teach an Arts Class
We hire local professional artists to lead arts classes onsite in selected senior care facilities. Artist instructors are supported with training and class assistance to ensure instruction is accessible and adaptable for senior participants.
Program Impact
Meaningful impacts in 2024
Seniors served through in-person arts programs in Austin
Original pieces of artwork featured at Seniors Smiles Art Exhibition
Hours of free arts classes provided to low-income seniors in Austin
celebrating seniors
Senior Smiles Exhibition
Each year we celebrate Senior Smiles participants by showcasing their original works of art in an annual exhibition attended by friends, family, and community members. This culminating public showcase empowers seniors with a sense of purpose and accomplishment in a world where they are often left feeling invisible.