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Nana in Minestrone is a performance art piece that will surprise, shock and hopefully deconstruct the populist belief (conscious or not) that our elders should be safely tucked away on a nice comfy couch, smiling warmly at Edwina their Persian cat, while the Sunday roast is self basting in the oven.
This concept is so far from the truth and my experience with the elders of Ballarat is completely the opposite. In the past few years I have had the privilege of working with the Rebel Elders, to help produce seven visually potent images for a dynamic group of elders, who were courageously out there and willing to take risks. From bubbles in the bathroom to tattooed and in flight, each elder soared with majestic originality and courage. And their effort was honoured at the first White Night Festival in Ballarat, which was a huge success.
This story is from the new edition of Ballarat Seniors magazine. Click here to read the entire publication online.
Nana in Minestrone is a continuation of breaking down the perception that our Nanas and Grandads, and anyone aged over 70, is somehow conservative and hesitant to leap from their comforts and strip down to explore a delightful, surreal idea, just for the hell of it. Art is fun. And should be accessible and promoted for all to dabble in.
The Goathouse Studios has become a bit of a touchstone for people of all ages and abilities to be reminded that they are unique and therefore what they create is equally and excitingly unique. It is important for all people in our community to be seen and revered. Sometimes self doubt may stop us from attempting anything at all. Nana in Minestrone reminds us all to dive in and have a good slurp of life and fun. It also encourages us to forever find new ways to show the world that no matter how old you are, you can make an impact and change people's thinking (and soup recipes).
Artist and game developer Arky Fitzwater, and I created the Goathouse Studios to help build a network where support is given - even if it is just to drop in and say hello. Everyone needs to be reminded how special they are. The simmering of Nana in Minestrone will be a live event at the Goathouse Studios in the Block Arcade (next to Kmart) this November. Come along and taste the difference.
If you would like to be a part of this delicious performance, or you have your own creative recipe, please contact Andy on 0407 534 020 or email thegoathousestudio@gmail.com