Arts Education & Outreach Programme
During my Service-Learning Programme with Lions Befrienders, I developed “To a New Year!”, a Chinese New Year Themed Arts-based program. The goal was to promote intergenerational bonding and creativity among seniors.
I designed a clay art competition focused on Chinese New Year, promoting collaboration between senior citizens and student volunteers. The program involved seniors creating themed clay artworks, facilitated by students. I also designed a program logo using Adobe Illustrator.
We used various techniques to enhance engagement, including Chinese New Year playlists, quizzes, and a Cai Shen Ye cosplay. We chose materials like air-dry clay for an enjoyable experience and provided prizes and goodie bags tailored to seniors’ preferences. The program encouraged active participation and creativity, fostering community and camaraderie.
The program received positive feedback from Lions Befrienders and seniors, alleviating loneliness and empowering seniors creatively. The success of “To a New Year!” demonstrated our ability to create impactful community programs that promote meaningful connections.
This experience taught me project planning, community engagement, and creativity. I gained insights into community organizations such as Lions Befrienders, which influenced our program design. Academically, I applied module concepts to create an inclusive environment, enhancing my skills as an arts manager. Personally, I developed empathy and respect for the elderly. This project strengthened my belief in the power of arts-based initiatives to foster social connections and well-being, contributing to my growth as an arts manager.
