Winnipeg Art Gallery’s new dementia-friendly program

The Winnipeg Art Gallery-Qaumajuq is introducing it’s new program, Together Through Art, for people living with dementia and their care partners on November 17, 2026.

Come together at the Gallery for a warm and welcoming experience where art becomes a starting point for connection, movement, conversation and creativity.

Over two hours, you will slow down and spend time looking closely at artworks in the Gallery — sharing observations, stories, memories and ideas. You’ll take time to notice, wonder, discover new perspectives and enjoy the experience of being together.

Inspired by the art, a registered physiotherapist will lead a gentle movement experience, followed by time to relax over tea and cookies, chat and connect with others.

You’ll finish with a simple creative activity, giving everyone an opportunity to make, explore and have fun together.

Created with comfort, connection and a gentle pace in mind, Together Through Art is a supportive way to experience the Gallery together.

What to expect

Over three weeks, participants will be invited to spend meaningful time together at the Gallery in a warm and relaxed environment.

Each two-hour session will include:

1. Gallery Tour: 45 minutes of looking closely at artworks, sharing observations, stories and ideas. There are no right or wrong answers — just opportunities to notice, wonder and connect.
2. Movement Inspired by Art: A gentle movement experience led by a registered physiotherapist, using the artworks as inspiration.
3. Tea and Connection: Time to sit together over tea and cookies, talk, laugh and get to know one another.
4. Creative Exploration: A simple, enjoyable hands-on activity inspired by the art and the experience of the day.

Program details

This three-week pilot program is free and provided through grant funding.

Here are the program details:

• This is a three-week program on Tuesdays: November 17, November 24 and December 1, 2026.
• Choose between the morning sessions (10 am – 12 pm) OR the afternoon sessions (1 – 3 pm).
• Space is limited with a maximum of six people living with dementia and their care partners per session.
• Registration is required and on a first-come basis.

More information

This program is not a community partner with the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba.

For questions or more information, please contact Nikki Schuweiler, Education & Programs Administrator at the WAG-Qaumajuq, by phone 789-6641 (extension 290) or email nschuweiler@wag.ca.