“Our Art Belongs Here” | Ernest Rubenstein Gallery

Manny Cantor Center

Our Art Belongs Here is an art exhibit dedicated to celebrating the creativity, talent, and connections of older New Yorkers. Inspired by the 2024 national theme of Older Americans Month, Powered by Connection, this exhibit emphasizes the value of resources that promote belonging and underscores the importance of art in supporting independence and aging in place.  

On display is a diverse range of artwork created by members of Educational Alliance’s Older Adult Art Programs, including Acrylic Painting, Ceramics, Chinese Beading, Drawing, Origami, Watercolor Painting, and Creative Arts Therapy. Each artwork testifies to the rich experiences and skills that older New Yorkers contribute to our community, reflecting the individuality and personal stories of its creator.  

About Creative Arts Therapy:

This gallery exhibit includes artwork created by community members who participate in classes, groups, and open studio spaces made possible, in part, through our Creative Arts Therapy program. Creative Arts Therapy utilizes expressive art modalities as a means of self-expression and healing to care for our mental health and wellness. Co-facilitated by graduate-level art therapy intern, Anastasia D. (Pratt Institute), and Sheryl Jaffe, MA, LCSW, within these groups and spaces, art is a therapeutic tool that emphasizes the creative process rather than 'perfection.' Through creative art-making, community members reflect, build confidence, connect, express, and develop a stronger sense of community. 

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Click on the photo of any artwork below to reveal the artist, title, medium, and personal reflection statement where the creator shares insights into their inspiration and process.