Elderly Creative Space Art Exhibition: A Touching Initiative by Unhas Students

SASINDO.UNHAS — A warm and meaningful atmosphere enveloped the Theodora Nursing Home on Jalan Sungai Saddang Lama, Maradekayya Selatan District, Makassar City, on Sunday, September 21, 2025. Joyful smiles and sparkling eyes lit up the faces of the elderly that afternoon, bearing silent witness to an art celebration that was more than just an exhibition—it was a tribute to life and creativity in the golden years.

The Elderly Creative Space Art Exhibition, initiated by the PKM-PM Team from the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) at Universitas Hasanuddin (Unhas), offered a platform for senior residents to express their talents and creative spirit. Dozens of artworks—from vibrant paintings and decorative flowers to beaded accessories—captivated visitors with their beauty and uniqueness, crafted by hands that may no longer be young but remain skillful and imaginative.

The organizing team, composed of students from various disciplines—Indonesian Literature, Law, Physics, and History—played a vital role in realizing an event that not only showcased art but also spread hope and motivation. The team included Alfira Hairunnisa (Indonesian Literature), Nur Haliza Sultan (Indonesian Literature), Muhammad Sajjad Iyadh Qusyaisyi (Law), Kasyfil Aziz (Physics), and Siti Hajar (History).

“This exhibition is not just about displaying art—it’s about opening a space for the elderly to create, feel joy, and find meaning in every piece,” said Alfira Hairunnisa, an Indonesian Literature student and one of the event organizers.

Attended by nursing home residents, staff, and visitors from various backgrounds, the event fostered a warm, intergenerational atmosphere. The radiant faces of the elderly proved that creativity is a bridge connecting past experiences with present appreciation and care.

One participant, Oma Ettha, could not hide her emotion and gratitude. With teary eyes, she expressed how much the presence of the students and the event meant to her and her friends.

“We, the grandmothers, are very proud and thankful for the attention and hard work of these students. Your sincerity makes us happy,” she said, deeply moved.

This exhibition was not merely a platform for artistic appreciation—it served as a reminder that age is no barrier to creativity and self-expression. Beyond enhancing the quality of life for the elderly, this initiative is hoped to inspire other nursing homes to provide similar spaces for their residents to channel their creativity. (*)