The schedule of ‘Presence’ educational programs
In conjunction with the exhibit, Oglebay Institute will host a series of learning and community-building events. Programs explore the various facets of aging and how art can play a role in that experience.
All programs are free and open to the public.
Thursday, March 5: “A Journey Through Dementia,” at 6 p.m. at Stifel Fine Arts Center.
April Wintermoyer, owner of Right At Home in Wheeling and Morgantown, will facilitate a virtual dementia experience. By altering senses and perceptions, the program simulates day-to-day realities of people living with dementia, enabling participants to experience firsthand the physical and mental challenges for those living with the disease.
Wednesday, March 11: Senior Yoga Class with Amy Johnson, at 10 a.m. at Stifel Fine Arts Center.
In this 45-minute chair class, practice movement, balance, flexibility and breathing techniques and cultivate an understanding of their importance. Open to any senior citizen, 65 and older. Reservations required.
Thursday, March 12: “Help, Hope & Understanding: A Dialogue on Dementia,” at 6 p.m. at Stifel Fine Arts Center. Experts in the fields of geriatric social work and dementia care discuss caregiving and treatment for dementia patients.
Thursday, March 19: “An Evening of Spoken Word,” at 6 p.m. at Stifel Fine Arts Center.
Join West Virginia poet laureate Marc Harshman and other writers for an evening of poetry and prose, reflecting on the concepts and culture of aging.
Thursday, March 26: Art Therapy Discussion with West Liberty University, at 6 p.m. at Stifel Fine Arts Center. Dr. Susan Ridley and students in West Liberty University’s creative arts therapy program discuss their experiences working with patients at Wheeling Hospital’s Continuous Care Center including purpose, goals and directives of art therapy.
Thursday, April 2: Isadora Kosofsky, at 6 p.m. at Stifel Fine Arts Center. Isadora Kosofsky will discuss her photo-documentary and feature film “Senior Love Triangle.” Also will be presented at Towngate Theatre at 7 p.m. April 3; at 4 and 7 p.m. April 4; and 2 p.m. April 5, at Towngate Theatre.
Inspired by the true story documented in Isadora Kosofsky’s photo series by the same name, “Senior Love Triangle” is a narrative feature film that focuses on intimacy, romantic love, loneliness and loss through a trio of senior citizens.
Thursday, April 9: “It’s Never Too Late: Creating Art Later in Life,” at 6 p.m. at Stifel Fine Arts Center.
Established and emerging artists over the age of 60 discuss their careers-some of which have been life-long and others that blossomed after retirement-and how creating art has enriched their lives.
Thursday, April 16: NEA Panel on Creative Aging, at 6 p.m. at Stifel Fine Arts Center.
Beth Bienvenu of the National Endowment for the Arts leads a discussion on Creative Aging-the practice of engaging older adults in participatory arts programs to benefit individuals and the community at large.
Thursday, April 23: “Navigating End of Life Care,” at 6 p.m. at Stifel Fine Arts Center. Experts in elder care discuss key elements of quality end of life care, including person-centered care, team approaches, involvement in programs such as hospice, and caregiver support.


