Four Seasons of Creativity for Elders
Spring: Drawing the Map of Your Life

Fridays, March 22nd, 29th, April 5th, 19th, & 26th
(Please note that there is no class on April 12th as the library is closed)

One of the most important and satisfying tasks of elderhood is telling the story of how you came to be the unique person you are. Each of us has been shaped by events, experiences and relationships. Our characters have been formed by crises we have lived through, achievements and disappointments we have managed, and the full spectrum of ways we have touched others and been touched in return. The story of a long life fully lived is the great gift elders offer – to their families and future generations, and to themselves. 

A fun and creative way of telling this story is by drawing your life’s journey as a map. Maps use images to symbolize where we’ve been, what’s impacted us, what we’ve learned, and how we’ve changed. Peaks of accomplishment and swamps of despair, crossroads of big decisions and shores of new beginnings – images are truly worth 1000 words!

David Oldfield has been inviting older people to construct maps of their lives for many years. He will share stories and illustrations from his recent book, An Atlas of Aging, which features the life maps of 20 older adults from around the world. The presentation will end with an invitation to join a small group for a six-week life mapping experience, facilitated by David.

Each season we will engage our creative imaginations using a different form of creative expression.

• In winter, we created legacy boxes to hold our most precious memories and keepsakes;
• In spring, we are drawing maps of our lives;
• In summer, we will winnow our memories to find the precious few that define us through writing and storytelling; and
• In the fall, we will make and paint life masks.

The workshops are free; all materials will be provided. And no talent is required! All we need from you is a willingness to say “YES!” to a new experience, and a desire to explore your life in creative ways.

RSVP by clicking the button above, emailing Leslie, or calling the office.

Public Transportation: There are several bus stops within one block of the library. It is served by bus routes L2 and E4.

Parking: There is a free parking lot behind the library.

Attendance: Please be aware that this is a five week commitment. If you have signed up to attend and find you are no longer available, please email or call the office (202-935-6060) as soon as possible, so we can offer your space to another person.

NNV Full Members: If you would like to request rides, please mention that you need a ride when you register or call the office at (202) 935-6060 to request a ride at least three days in advance.

Accessibility: The library is wheelchair accessible. There is an elevator to the 2nd floor meeting room.