What is Up and Away Art and how did it come to be?
Up and Away Art is a heart-centered, community-driven nonprofit based in Rice Lake, Wisconsin. We’re dedicated to supporting individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer’s and dementia. I founded the organization after being inspired by my personal experiences to create a safe and empowering space where families can explore the healing power of art.
Our focus at Up and Away Art is on the process of creating—using artistic mediums like painting, collage, and mixed media to engage participants in activities that stimulate both creativity and cognitive abilities. Our goal is not just to produce art but to offer a therapeutic outlet where emotions can be expressed, stress can be reduced, and deeper connections with self and others can be formed.
A cornerstone of our organization is the mentorship program, which pairs participants with experienced artists who gently guide them through the creative process. This collaborative model ensures that each session is accessible, enjoyable, and rewarding. The artwork often becomes a lasting keepsake, with pieces transformed into prints, greeting cards, and home decor, providing families with tangible reminders of their loved one’s creative journey.
I founded Up and Away Art to show that art can be more than just an expression of beauty—it can be a powerful tool for communication, memory preservation, and joy, even in the face of life-altering conditions like dementia.
Seeing the transformative power of art solidified my commitment to helping others discover this path to healing and empowerment.
Sherry Wesolowski
What inspired you to grapple with dementia?
My inspiration to work with families affected by dementia came from a deep desire to provide hope and healing in a unique and meaningful way. My background as a transformational art coach, artist, and special education teacher gave me insight into how art can bring together individuals, regardless of their cognitive abilities.
Through my volunteer work hosting art events for caregivers and families affected by dementia, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact art can have—not just as a creative outlet but as a way to foster connection and resilience. These sessions became opportunities for participants to heal, communicate, and express emotions that words might fail to capture. Seeing the transformative power of art solidified my commitment to helping others discover this path to healing and empowerment.
Artwork created in the group therapy sessions can be placed on merchandise, such as prints, greeting cards, and home decor items, allowing families to cherish and share these creations. At a recent event that included Up and Away Art, participants go about making their unique creations.
How has working on dementia-related art changed you?
My journey into dementia-related art has been truly transformative. My understanding of art has evolved from being merely a medium of beauty to one of deep, empathetic communication. Art has become a way to reach those who may struggle to express themselves and to provide a channel through which emotions, memories, and connections can flow freely.
This work has reshaped my perspective on aging, highlighting the importance of maintaining cognitive and emotional engagement throughout life. It has infused my artistic practice with a sense of social responsibility, showing me that art can transcend traditional boundaries and become a bridge for understanding and compassion. This experience has deepened my commitment to using art to inspire hope, healing, and connection across generations.
What events do you have coming up?
We’re excited to collaborate with Arts For All Wisconsin to offer both local and virtual classes for families impacted by dementia, utilizing the SPARK! Program Curriculum, which is specifically designed to engage and inspire those with memory-related challenges.
Additionally, our long-term vision includes establishing a community art studio—a vibrant space where individuals can gather, create, and connect through art. This studio will serve as a hub for ongoing support and creative engagement, providing opportunities for families to continue their artistic journeys in a nurturing, inclusive environment.
This work is dedicated to: Rice Lake Senior Center and Barron/Rusk County ADRC, honoring their support and the families we serve with transformative art.
