Milwaukee, Wis. (June 15, 2021) – Ovation Communities, a Milwaukee-area senior living community, recently partnered with local artist Angela Shelstad to celebrate the lives of its residents through art. With Project Hue, Shelstad turns people’s memories and life stories into paintings and videos. The program will be spotlighted at a virtual event hosted by Ovation Communities on June 24 at 3 p.m.
Shelstad has been working with Ovation Communities on Project Hue for more than three years. During that time, she painted the stories of 11 program participants and several others through an accompanying community outreach program, as well as organized drawing and sculpting classes. As part of her process, Shelstad sits down with each person to talk about their life, while capturing their dreams, stories, and adventures. Through these conversations, Shelstad gets the inspiration for her artwork. When the painting is complete, a “reveal” is hosted for the participant and family members.
“Everyone has a story to tell,” said artist Angela Shelstad. “Project Hue helps people remember who they are and some of the most wonderful moments in their lives. At the same time, their memories are preserved as a permanent keepsake for that person, their family and their friends.”
Shelstad’s work has had a positive impact on many of Ovation’s residents and Adult Day Services participants with memory loss. The initiative provides a way for older adults to maintain their identity and individuality. Creative art programs like Project Hue have been shown to improve self-confidence, stimulate brain health, reinforce a strong sense of identity and reduce isolation.
“We’re so thrilled to partner with Angela to bring Project Hue to life in Milwaukee,” said Dawn Adler, director of Adult Day Services at Ovation Communities. “We all crave connection and meaningful activities, and this partnership is a great example of some of the unique things we do at Ovation. It’s about bringing a wide range of rich and interactive programs that bring joy to the heart and create long lasting relationships.”
A selection of paintings and videos can be viewed online at https://www.projecthue.com. To participate in the June 24 event, visit the Zoom event link. The event will introduce Project Hue, celebrate participants’ life stories and reveal three new paintings.
For more information about Ovation’s Adult Day Services programs, including new virtual options, visit https://ovation.org/adult-day-services/.
About Ovation Communities
Founded in 1906, Ovation Communities is a Jewish faith-based organization, and offers a full continuum of senior living and care options, from independent apartments to rehabilitation and skilled nursing services. Comprised of two locations – Ovation Jewish Home and Ovation Chai Point – Ovation Communities provides outstanding care and vibrant living environments intended to celebrate independent lifestyles. Ovation Communities welcomes residents of all faiths. For more information visit www.ovation.org.
About Angela Shelstad
Shelstad studied marketing and worked as director of admissions for a long term care facility before transitioning to art. She started Project Hue as a way to honor her late grandmother, who was also an artist, and the influence she had on her life. Visit https://www.projecthue.com for more information on Project Hue.
