Palmersdene care home resident’s painting on online art gallery

A painting created by a resident from Palmersdene care home in Jarrow is showcasing online as part of National Day of Arts in Care Homes today.

Alex Ord, 88, from Anchor’s Palmersdene in Grange Road West, was thrilled to be told his artwork had been selected for the online gallery which is focusing on how arts has been used to keep care settings connected during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The painting of an older couple sitting on a park bench watching the sunset was chosen to be featured on Anchor’s and the Art in Care Homes Day websites.

Alex, who moved into Palmersdene September last year, said: “This is the first time any of my artwork has been displayed publicly so I’m very happy my painting was selected for the gallery.

“Painting has always been a hobby so I’ve never displayed my work. I like painting because it keeps my mind active.”

Residents and staff from the home took part in the national celebration day by organising a variety of art-themed activities.

They joined more than 30 of Anchor’s care homes across England for an art-themed quiz on Zoom so that residents in the homes around the country could compete against each other.

There was also a live Indian dancing demonstration broadcast to the care homes online as part of the day. Residents were encouraged to take part in the chair-based dance exercises run by Bisakha Sarker, Chaturangan’s the artistic director, who was awarded an MBE in 2014 for services to Indian dance. 

Diane Armstrong, Anchor’s Wellness Advisor, said: “We are so happy to take part in the National Day of Arts in Care Homes as it builds on the many creative activities we already organise in our 114 care homes across England. 

“Art is a wonderful way for residents to express their feelings, show off their artistic flare and for others to appreciate the talents of the older people living in our care homes.”

The online gallery of older people’s artwork can be viewed here:

For more information on Palmersdene, contact 0800 731 2020.