How Heritage Contributes to Creative Communities
Heritage Saskatchewan 2012 Forum
“Bonnie Chapman, Artist in Residence & Director, Creativity for Health Program for the Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region participated as a panelist at the 2012 Heritage Forum. The panel, “Role of Memory and How Heritage Contributes to Quality of Life” was led by Plenary Speaker, Dr. David Goa, where the group presented concepts of how the power of the past contributes to shape present day experience. Bonnie’s presentation as part of this panel, “How Memory Enhances Healing Through the Arts in Health Care” explored how memory of social history emerges through the creative process and brings transformative healing in a hospital based art studio. Bonnie shared two case studies from the clinical setting and showed participants how memory and heritage — including family and community, language and schooling, religion and spirituality, dreams and experiences in nature, and other significant events that constitute social being — are expressed through the arts. Her presentation showed delegates how these painted memories are integrated and applied as new learning, and their compassionate and empowering impact on the health of patients, health-care staff, and the wider community.
On behalf of Heritage Saskatchewan, I would like to thank Bonnie for her insights and excellent presentation. Investing in initiatives using the creative process demonstrates the importance of the arts and heritage to health and well being. Thank you for your inspirational presentation!”
Ingrid Cazakoff
CEO, Heritage Saskatchewan