There’s not much that Catherina van der Linden, 109, hasn’t seen in her long life, but a portrait of herself is one thing.
Key points:
- The portrait project has already been implemented in NSW, QLD and ACT
- It aims to break down negative stereotypes about aging
- Intergenerational programs can improve health outcomes and reduce loneliness
As he approaches to examine her resemblance, he makes a small gesture of approval.
“I feel absolutely amazing,” he says.
Mrs van der Linden is among nearly a hundred South Australians over the age of 100, who have been painted by teenage artists across the state.
It is part of a national portrait project launched by the social art company Embraced Inc that aims to bridge the generational gap and bring joy.
Portrait of 109-year-old Catherina van der Linden by Olympia Andrae
Creative director Rose Connors Dance said the Centenarian Portrait Project was beneficial to both artists and subjects.
“Seeing what 100 years of life is like through the eyes of young artists is incredibly humble for everyone involved,” he said.
“We saw that many participants were gaining confidence, developing sensitive communication skills and understanding the other age group.”
Portrait of Velta Ozols, 100, by Tilda Byleveld, 16.
‘An amazing experience’
Most of the teenagers involved in the project had never met a 100-year-old and said communication was often difficult.
They began the process by getting to know their topic through face-to-face meetings, video calls, sharing family photos, and even writing letters.
Artist Skylah James, 16, said the process of portraying Barbara Morley, 101, allowed her to rethink some negative stereotypes about aging.
“It’s a lot of fun and she’s expressed to me that just because you’re older doesn’t mean you have to act that way,” he said.
“She wanted to capture her brazenness … her pink lipstick and her glasses, and everything she did herself.
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“It’s amazing that two different generations can come together and create such an amazing piece and learn so much from each other.”
Combat age stereotypes
Intergenerational programs are becoming an increasingly popular part of practices and systems for caring for the elderly around the world.
Benefits include reducing depression, relieving loneliness, and disproving age stereotypes, which can also improve the way an older person perceives themselves.
“Age is a real issue in our community,” Ms. Connors Dance said.
“The more we spend time with people of different ages, the more we understand that being older is just being a different version of ourselves.
“At 100 it’s great to do something new and making an 85-year-old friend younger is a pretty interesting experience.”
Intergenerational programs can reduce loneliness and promote learning.
The project has already been implemented in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland, with plans to expand to Tasmania and WA.
The Adelaide exhibition will be open at the Torrens Parade Ground until the end of the month, after which centenarians will be able to take their portraits home.