Local group, Dementia Friendly Wrexham, are always looking for ways to share the message about Dementia, increasing awareness and providing support for those living with the disease, and their carers.
One group member and local artist, Margaret Roberts, sadly lost her sister to dementia, but a chance finding among her sister’s belongings inspired a project that has brought people with the disease, along with carers and supporters, together.
Margeret’s sister was also an artist and among her things she found a guide to the Bayeaux Tapestry – the medieval embroidery chronicling events leading up to the Battle of Hastings. And so…the project began.
Dementia Friendly Wrexham teamed up with Margaret as part of their weekly, inclusive art group, where people living with dementia and their carers are able to take part in art, with support and equipment provided, without any cost.
This group, along with two others that Margaret works with, were challenged to recreate the tapestry in art with each group member painting at least one section.
Both proud of the work itself and all those who took part, it was decided that the finished product should be displayed – no easy feat for something so long – and Chirk Castle offered a room, which is now filled by the art work and is on display for anyone to go and see.
Cllr Beverley Parry-Jones, lead member for adult social care, said: “Dementia Friendly Wrexham is a really important group, working to increase awareness of dementia and offering help and support where possible. They also work with local people and businesses as part of Dementia Friends.
A Dementia Friend is someone that learns more about dementia and the ways that they are able to make small changes in their communities to reduce feelings of isolation that are so often felt by those living with the disease. I am also proud to say that Wrexham Council is a Dementia Friends organisation.”
Cllr Frank Hemmings, coordinator of the project, said: “Art is a proven, healthy outlet for those living with dementia and we are so lucky to have Margaret Roberts as part of our group. A lot of her time went into the organisation and providing the necessary support, and we are all so proud of the results.
“The artwork has been very well received and is expected to be on display at Chirk Castle for the next couple of months, so I would encourage as many people as possible to come and see it and to also spread the word about the support available to those living with dementia, as well as their carers.”
