We have had a fun month full of memories this January. During our Meaningful Moments program for memory care groups, we have focused on objects in the DMA’s Decorative Arts gallery. From the Silver Streak iron (model no. 1038) to the Nocturne radio (Model 1186), objects in this gallery have sparked memories from several participants. Close looking, conversations, laughing, and even some toe-tapping while singing along to Bing Crosby filled the Decorative Arts gallery. Following our time looking at art, participants created their own decorative work of art – a colorful wreath to take back and hang on their doors.
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- DMA Teaching Specialist Danielle Schulz listens to music from the 1940s with Dean, a program participant.
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- Two participants look closely at objects in the gallery.
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- Access Docents Gerry and Susan lead a group in a lively discussion about homemaking in the 1940s (note Susan’s festive outfit!).
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- A participant adds final touches to her decorative wreath.
Vacuum cleaner (model 30), Lurelle Guild, Electrolux Corporation, 1937, Dallas Museum of Art, gift of John T. Howell and Thomas J. Howell in memory of their father John P. Howell
One object in particular, the Electrolux vacuum cleaner, inspired the most sharing. We got a kick out of one participant who shared a story about her mother’s Electrolux vacuum cleaner. We were lucky to snag a quick video.
[youtube=http://youtu.be/39BMOriSLmI]
Participant: “Father traveled a lot for business. He brought mother home an Electrolux, and he had her name printed on it.”
Danielle: “Was your mother very happy when she received that as a present, to see her name on the vacuum cleaner?”
Participant: “Well, her comment was, ‘You brought me something to work with!’”
What a fun story! And just the kind of memories we hope are shared during Meaningful Moments.
For more information, or to register a memory care facility group, call 214-922-1251 or e-mail access@DMA.org.
Amanda Blake
Head of Family, Access, and School Experiences