Flirting with Form: Works by Toi Ako Artists

Flirting with form: Works by Toi Ako artists is an exhibition that explores the role of the arts and wellbeing in communities, and its effectiveness in supporting older people to age well.

Showcasing works by 13 emerging elder artists aged 56-91, developed over 2019-2020 as part of Connect the Dots pilot mentoring project, Toi Ako which is a creative collaboration between older people living in care and practising artists. This exhibition speaks to the reciprocal nature of learning, where artist mentors have shared their skills, encouraging older participants to bring their unique life experiences to shape their own visual language.

Connect the Dots has been working in community arts for several years and has seen the transformational power art making can bring individuals and communities. Artmaking and creative thinking can increase motor skills and coordination and stimulate cognitive function for older people and people living with dementia. Being engaged in creative programmes improves mood and mental health and combats loneliness by providing opportunities for social connection.