THINGS TO DO
Programs for seniors to explore art In-Gallery Conversation (Photo courtesy High Museum of Art)
By Logan C. Ritchie The High Museum of Art is launching a Lifelong Learning series for art fans aged 50 or older with events and classes designed to explore art, exercise creativity and make social connections. “Atlanta is one of the most rapidly aging cities in the country, and we see an opportunity to reach this growing population in our metro Atlanta area,” said Laurel Humble, head of Creative Aging and Lifelong Learning at the High. By offering different types of programs oriented toward people with varying levels art experience, museum officials hope to appeal to a people with a variety of learning styles and motivations. A kickoff celebration at the High on June 1 attracted a range of art enthusiasts, from newbies to aficionados. Humble has spent her career working with adults in museum education. She earned a B.A. in art from the University of Georgia and an M.A. in urban education from City University of New York. Prior to the High, she worked at the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) in New York with people with Alzheimer’s disease and their
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JULY 2022 | AtlantaSeniorLife.com
care partners. After two years of disruption due to COVID, Humble is excited to be launching the program. “In some ways it feels like we’re finally at the moment we hoped for a couple of years ago,” Humble said. Humble said the High has taken into consideration Lifelong Learning students of all abilities. Assistive listening devices and foldable, lightweight chairs are available by request. Museums can be tiring places to walk around, even if you’re not covering a lot of ground, Humble said. “We try to share how much distance we’ll be covering and give people the information so they can make an informed decision around their own accessibility,” she said. Here are some upcoming events planned in July: “Conversation Pieces” July 5, 12-12:30 p.m. Members: Free; Non-members: $16.50. Registration required. Location: Taylor Lobby at the High Museum Museum fellows discuss Howardina Pindell’s watercolor, “Untitled #69.”
