Art is a therapeutic activity that is important to the health of all, but Gold Award Girl Scout, Lauren Watmore, recognized that there were few opportunities for seniors to showcase their work. Inspired by her grandmother who started painting in her 70’s, Lauren created The Golden Renaissance, an online art gallery for senior citizens to showcase their work.

“My website aims to provide a platform for older artists to have their artistic voices be heard and to encourage older artists to continue being creative as it has such a positive impact.”

Her research found that engaging in art-related activities can increase cognitive functions, enhance mental health, and improve overall well-being, which can be especially beneficial to those in retirement. Lauren taught herself how to build the website, advertised online, created a submission tutorial flyer, and reached out to senior centers, assisted living facilities, art therapy businesses, and retirement homes for submissions. She held a successful launch party for the virtual gallery over Zoom and created a Facebook page where individuals could learn more about her project and submit their works of art.

Although Lauren’s Gold Award Project was created to give back to the seniors in her community, she witnessed the benefits of art appreciation as well. “I am so happy to see how many people of all ages are enjoying the website. I love seeing the pieces that the seniors have submitted, as each one has such a different style. I learned first-hand what a difference simply looking at art everyday can make on your life.”

To learn more about Lauren’s project and check out her online art gallery, visit lewwatmore.wixsite.com/thegoldenrenaissance.  To learn more about the incredible ways Girl Scouts are bringing positive change to your community, click here.