CANTON , OH (04/17/2013)(readMedia)-- Clare Murray Adams, M.F.A., professor of art at Malone University, has published a book entitled The Handkerchief Memory Project, a follow-up to the exhibit of the same name held in the Fountain Gallery of the Johnson Center in November 2012.
The intention of the project was to interview people ages 50-90 to ascertain how they feel about memory and whether it is associated with the aging process. The handkerchief was used as the surface for the memories since this article is one easily identified by the population that was being targeted. Memories are illustrated on handkerchiefs based on the narrative that was told or written. Through the written and illustrated work, the book recounts personal histories in individual moments. The book identifies common themes of memory such as family, vacations, holidays, and everyday experiences.
The project was made possible with the help of a grant from ArtsinStark, enabling Professor Murray Adams to produce -- and then give -- the book to various Senior Living Centers in Stark County.
Because of the reoccurring themes in the book, it lends itself to stimulating remembrances on the part of others. For that reason, the packet with the book includes a list of activities and some materials that might be used to encourage conversations with others.
The book was self-published through blurb.com and can be viewed on their website, www.blurb.com, by going to the Bookstore section of the site.