Artworks, one of the 16 programs of the Goldman Institute on Aging (IOA), is an Artists-In-Residence program that provides workshop instruction and performance opportunities to over 500 older adults annually. The elderly adults are either homebound, attend one of San Francisco's Adult Day Health Centers, or live in residential homes for the elderly.

Artwork serves as a "clearing house" for contracting and training artists to work with the elderly city-wide. The primary mission of Artworks is to keep well and frail elders connected and contributing to the community by teaming them with professional, visual, and performing artists and involving them in cross-generation programs. The program artists assist the elders in transcending the barriers that result from age, cultural differences, language and health. The program began in 1978 and is funded in part by the California Arts Council, a state agency. The average age of participants is 75 years.

The two collages displayed on this page are examples of the creative expressions of Arlene Francis though the Artworks program. As a victim of Alzheimer's Disease for nearly two decades, Arlene greatly benefited from the program.

In October 1997, Arlene's works were showcased in a private art show in San Fransico, California. The event was in celebration of her 90th birthday and a prelude to National Alzheimer's Month, which is observed in November. In spite of the effects of Alzheimer's Disease, Arlene has created over 40 paintings and collages. Her focused creative activity has kept her connected to the world and to others.

Artist Nadine Gay has worked with Ms. Francis in creating the large body of lively works in watercolors, pastels, collage and fabric. Artist Gay believes the creative process has helped Ms. Francis stay focused through the illustration of her love of life and spirited nature.

Jeff Chapline is the Artworks Program Director. Donations in support of the program, may be sent to the Goldman Institute on Aging, Development Department, GIOA, 3330 Geary Boulevard, 2-West, San Francisco, CA 94118. Checks should be made payable to the Goldman Institute, with "Artworks" specified in the check memo.

See photos of Arlene's work through the ARTWORKS PROGRAM.