Western artists have put a microscope up to ageism and the impacts it has on the elderly community.
As part of a joint event with the Australian Multicultural Community Services [AMCS], Council on the Ageing [COTA] Victoria, the Municipal Association of Victoria [MAV], and the Commissioner for Senior Victorians Gerard Mansour, representatives came together at The Studio Footscray on Friday, October 7 (Ageism Awareness Day) to recognise the works created as part of the AMCS Anti-Ageism Art Challenge.
AMCS chief executive Elizabeth Drozd said the challenge aimed to address the negative stereotypes of ageing and highlight the wisdom and skills elderly Australians can still offer.
“There is not enough respect towards older people in Australia and numerous research has highlighted this,” she said.
Artist Dabgraphixs took out first place in the challenge with his piece ‘Forever Caring’, which was inspired by his late grandparents.
“As a student social worker, I believe that we should continue to celebrate life,” he said.
“Age should not be a barrier to challenging lifelong expectations.”
Commissioner for Senior Victorians Gerard Mansour said everyone should learn about and challenge ageism.
“Ageist attitudes, behaviours and stereotypes continue to have enormous impacts on older people’s health, wellbeing, independence and confidence in all areas of life,” he said.
“Ageism Awareness Day provides a valuable opportunity to increase awareness and create change.”
Matthew Sims
