Welcome
Drawing for Dementia is a 501(c)(3) founded by Gabi Boyd. With the help of student artists and her art teacher, they work together to bring memories and joy to other individuals living with Dementia in Southwest Florida.
Learn about the story below.
3
memory communities
75+
pieces of artwork
active participants
50+
The Story
"I have always loved art. In elementary school, when I wasn't with family or friends, you would catch my drawing, painting, or creating something new. I could always count on my two grandmothers to graciously accept my artwork!
My Babi started showing signs of Alzheimer's when I was five years old, and my Nana when I was 9. Even more so than before, my art became central to our relationship. It was the talking point of conversations between us, and a sweet expression of kindness and joy whenever I gave them my artwork. There was nothing more special than making them happy. They became my inspiration for starting Drawing for Dementia.
I decided in High School that I wanted to share this experience with others around me. I could recruit artists at my school to make pieces specific to individuals living with Dementia in Southwest Florida. Through connections, I knew of a few memory care communities in Naples, and also had a small group of friends that liked to draw. My art teacher was on board for my idea. I began to reach out to activity directors at these memory communities, and got some students at my school involved too. It has been a work in progress with lots of trial and error, but I am so thankful that I have this opportunity to spread joy to others in my community."
- Gabi Boyd
Pictured above are Gabi and her grandmothers.
