Over the past month, Washington University students and residents at the Crown Center for Senior Living have been working together to build personal relationships through the medium of art.

Organized by the JSU Social Action Committee, the “Generations Through Art” program is currently in the middle of its second year.
“The most amazing thing to watch has been the dialogue that has transpired between the residents and the students,” said Amy Boxer, a committee member and a coordinator of the program. “As we explained hip-hop to them, they told us about their lives growing up during the Depression.”
Ten students and six residents met on a weekly basis to work on their art projects, which were collages of magazine cut-outs on canvas board. The students were paired with the same residents each week.
“It was remarkable just how quickly bonds were made between the students and the residents,” Boxer said. “I know some even exchanged numbers so the students could continue to visit the residents.”
The program will culminate in an open house showcasing the program’s work on Tuesday, Nov. 28 at the Crown Center. “Generations Through Art” will continue in the spring semester.

WU Students work together with residents of the Crown Center.

Photo Credit: Amy Boxer