This October, nearly four months after we wrapped up our 4-week Virtual Su-CASA program for Brooklyn seniors, we were excited to gather everyone back together for a virtual reunion art show. It had been so long since we last saw each other, so this was a chance to reconnect, catch up on what everyone had been up to, and see the work they made using the glass mosaic art kits we sent everyone after the program ended.
The virtual art show featured beautiful mosaic artworks created by six participants who took part in The Many Facets of Glass, including members from Abe Stark Senior Center, St. Charles Jubilee Senior Center, Bay Ridge Connects Community Center, and an alumna of UrbanGlass' Bead Project. Each design spoke to the artists' unique creative sensibilities, sparking joy and inspiration in all those who attended to show their support. Exploring color, movement, and pattern in glass, the mosaics we saw were bold and vibrant; a perfect reflection of this community.
It was wonderful to chat, laugh, and talk about art with everyone again. After the art show we heard about what other fun things the group had done since the summer, like trying glassblowing for the first time, reconnecting with friends as community centers start to open back up, and attending virtual movie nights at the senior center. We also learned about some other opportunities for staying creative with UrbanGlass, including free monthly drawing sessions on Zoom, scholarships for virtual and in-person classes, and the Bead Project scholarship program.
To conclude the reunion show, we took a look back at all of the amazing artwork from the summer in a digital "mosaic" celebrating each participant's art kit pieces. It was incredible to be reminded of the enthusiasm and support this community hold for each other. We look forward to coming back together again in the future to keep growing our communal mosaic of joy.
Check out some of our favorite Su-CASA moments in this video created by UrbanGlass Education Intern, Anisa Najar:
The Su-CASA program is funded by the New York City Council. It is a collaboration among the City Council, the Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA), the Department for the Aging (DFTA) and Brooklyn Arts Council.