New Encounters:
Rare Dementia Support Canada 2026

Making Art Making Change (MAMC), in its third year of collaboration with Rare Dementia Support Canada (RDS C), brought together a new group of members for New Encounters Winter 2026 in our virtual studio space. 

Over eight weeks, remarkable accomplishments and exchanges unfolded. Participants—people living with a rare form of dementia in a dedicated morning session and care partners in the afternoon—spoke openly and thoughtfully about their past lives, new experiences, and celebrated each other’s work. As participants became familiar with each other, the sessions became very lively; members were strong advocates for themselves, shaping the space through their voices and insights, and they built a bond. MAMC facilitators learned about the nuances of the different forms of Rare Dementia from participants, which is informing the design of our future projects.

MAMC’s weekly slide presentations introduced artists working on the theme of the sessions, accompanied by poetry and music. The group had conversations, mostly amusing and sometimes very poignant. All the while engaged in creative explorations using drawing, collage, and painting. They were supported by the carefully prepared art materials sent in advance. The prompts for each session encouraged participants to reflect on themes of lived experience, meaningful places, and significant objects. 

The accordion book format is essential. As it expands, it holds both continuity and change. Pages relate to one another, yet each stands on its own. The final book becomes an extension of the participants' lives—a visual record of experience rather than a narrative that must be explained.

We are deeply grateful to all participants and to our partners at Rare Dementia Support Canada for their support in sustaining this work. 

MAMC is looking forward to New Encounters S26.  

WORK & PROCESS

Making Art Making Change is a non-profit charity committed to giving voice to individuals in a group setting within communities through the use of visual arts.

Our experienced artist educators are committed to creating a safe space and engaging projects where participants can explore artistic expression while developing self-awareness, collaboration skills and original creative thinking. Our focus is to facilitate dialogue and collaboration, thereby strengthening community bonds and reducing isolation.

Charitable Number 770955870 RR0001

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