Every first Thursday of the month, the Seattle Japanese Garden opens its gate to the public for free after 3pm. This tradition of bringing the community together through art on first Thursday of every month originates in Seattle’s own Pioneer Square and dates back to the early 80’s.

For the first Free First Thursday of the year, we’re excited to welcome you to the opening reception for an eye-opening watercolor collection by a group of artists from the Seattle Parks and Recreation's Dementia-Friendly Recreation program.

For the past two years, these artists participated in the ‘Arts in the Park’ Watercolor Painting program, a partnership with Elderwise, sponsored by Careforce. For 20 years, Elderwise has brought the peace and satisfaction of painting to people living with dementia. The exhibit is a rich and dynamic expression of the inspirations they received in the Seattle Japanese Garden.

Join us on Thursday, April 5th, 4pm-5:45pm in the Tateuchi Community Room. Admission to the garden is free after 3pm. Refreshments provided. The exhibit will be on display through the end of May.

For more information about Dementia-Friendly Programs, visit their website here: http://www.seattle.gov/parks/find/dementia-friendly-recreation

To learn more about other dementia-friendly opportunities throughout Seattle, click here: http://www.momentiaseattle.org/

For more information about Elderwise, visit their website, http://www.elderwise.org/

For any other questions regarding the Dementia-Friendly Watercolor Painting program, please contact Emily at Emily.Steelquist@seattle.gov or 206-386-4149.