Meals on Wheels of Southwest Ohio and Northern Kentucky is proud to announce the launch of the 2026 Senior Artist Cohort—an inspiring new collaboration with Cincinnati Art Museum and ArtWorks. This five-month Health & Wellness Program is designed to celebrate creativity, storytelling and meaningful connection among the older adults in our community.
The Senior Artist Cohort is rooted in the belief that artistic expression is a powerful tool for health, expression and inclusion.
Research published by the National Institutes of Health indicates that creative engagement offers significant mental health benefits for older adults. Numerous studies have found that participation in shared artistic experiences is associated with lower levels of depression and anxiety—challenges that impact older adults in unique ways. Additionally, learning new skills or deepening interest in existing skills is proven to enhance brain health.
Kara Harper, Health & Wellness Program Coordinator at Meals on Wheels, sees a powerful opportunity to pair health and creativity with The Senior Artist Cohort.
“Working with older adults every day has opened my eyes to how many older adults feel lonely, unheard, and undervalued,” says Kara. “There can also be a struggle with the change in identity that comes with aging. The Senior Artist Cohort is meant to explore this topic while reminding our elders of the value of their voices and their stories.”
The program provides a structured, supportive environment where seniors can explore their life stories through various artistic media. Studio sessions will take place at ArtWorks and include guidance from Annie Ruth, professional, Cincinnati-based artist.
The Senior Artist Cohort experience includes:
- Inspiration: The series kicks off with a gallery tour of professional artists' interpretations of aging, providing insight into the artistic process.
- Collaboration: Seniors meet monthly for hands-on sessions, guided through a variety of materials and techniques to create original artwork inspired by their own experiences.
- The Grand Finale: The program culminates in a public exhibition and Artist Reception at the Cincinnati Art Museum—a meaningful moment that honors the voice and creativity of every participant.
2026 Program Schedule
To ensure a cohesive experience for the cohort, participants are asked to be available for the following dates:
- January 9 (10 a.m. to noon): Gallery Tour + Studio Session
- February 13 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.): Studio Session
- March 13 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.): Studio Session
- April 10 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.): Studio Session
- May 8 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.): Studio Session
- May 29 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.): Artist Reception
No prior artistic experience is necessary to participate! All skill levels are welcome. This program is FREE for older adults.
Registration and Contact Information
Limited spaces are available for this unique opportunity. Community members or partner organizations interested in learning more are encouraged to reach out to Kara Harper before the registration deadline of Jan. 6.
Kara Harper
513-244-5494
kpierson@muchmorethanameal.org