Memory Connections

Memory Connections is a free program for people living with dementia and their caregivers. On the second Thursday of every month, trained teaching artists and special performers facilitate an online experience designed to promote engagement between participants and the art and cultures of the Himalayan region.

In addition to an in-depth look at two artworks from the Museum’s collection, the July program features Magda Kaczmarska, a dance artist and creative-aging thought leader, who teaches participants how to use movement as a form of storytelling. All activities can be done seated or standing.

Memory Connections will run through August 2024. On October 6, the Rubin will close the galleries on 17th Street and transform into a global museum model.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Magda Kaczmarska is a dance artist and creative-aging thought leader living in New York City. She received her MFA in dance performance and choreography and her BS in biochemistry and molecular biophysics from the University of Arizona. She brings 10 years working in neuropharmacology research and over 15 years in community-based education settings in dance and creative expression for persons of all ages, specifically older adults, to her practice. Magda founded DanceStream Projects, a creative collective based in New York City, dedicated to building a healthy, expressive, and inclusive community through transdisciplinary partnerships that center the vehicle of dance as a catalyst for systems change. Through DanceStream Projects, Magda created several award-winning programs, including Stories in the Moment, which applies evidence-informed approaches to extend brain health to older adults and people living with dementia through co-creative dance while amplifying their creative voice.

Major support for Memory Connections is provided by the Mellon Foundation with additional support from The Frederick P. Lenz Foundation for American Buddhism.

Image: Detail of Arapachana Manjushri; Kham Province, Eastern Tibet; 19th century; pigments on cloth; Rubin Museum of Art; gift of Shelley and Donald Rubin; C2006.66.464 (HAR 925)