Members of the Art-Escape program sitting around a long table, painting and drawing together with native foliage in the centre. Light streams in through the windows of a community hall in Ballarat.
Starting late February 2026

Art-Escape.

A specially designed and supportive art program for people living with dementia. An opportunity for socialisation, creativity and friendship.

When Weekly program, plus other dates throughout the year
Where Ballarat and Creswick
For People living with dementia

An art program with heart

Art-Escape is a specially designed and supportive art program for people living with dementia, starting in late February 2026 across Ballarat and Creswick.

This isn't a class. There's no pressure to produce a finished piece, no comparing of work, no right or wrong way. Art-Escape is an opportunity to spend time with materials and with people — to make something, to share something, to be in the company of others who understand.

What to expect

Each session is welcoming, gentle, and supportive. Materials are provided. You can bring a carer or family member, or come on your own. Tea, coffee and conversation are part of the program — as much as the art itself.

Art-Escape is built around three things:

  • Socialisation — friendly company, shared time, and gentle conversation
  • Creativity — exploring colour, texture, and making, without pressure
  • Friendship — building real, ongoing connections with other people in the community
A specially designed and supportive art program for people living with dementia. Opportunity for socialisation, creativity and friendship.

Who can come

Art-Escape is for people living with dementia. Carers and family members are welcome to join sessions or to stay nearby — whatever works best for the person and the day. Everyone is welcome, no art experience required.

About the program

Art-Escape is the newest program in the Bigger Hearts family — joining the Bigger Hearts Choir, Carers Catch Up, the Memory Walk & Jog, and the Sensory Trail. It launches in late February 2026 as part of our tenth year of community-led work in Ballarat.

The program is run by Glenda, a Bigger Hearts volunteer, with support from our wider community. If you'd like to come along, donate art supplies, or volunteer to help — please get in touch.

For more information

Get in touch with Glenda for session times, what to bring on your first visit, or to register your interest. New members are warmly welcomed.

Call Glenda
Where
Ballarat and Creswick — venues confirmed when you register
Help us begin well

Donations and art supplies needed

Art-Escape is a new program. Donations help us cover venue hire, materials, and the small things that make every session welcoming. Donated art supplies are very welcome too.