AS I AGE…. takes centre-stage at Cooly Rocks

An oversized, stand-alone chalkboard is centre-stage at this year’s Cooly Rocks (29 May-7 June), asking people to finish the sentence “As I Age….”

This public art installation – known as the ‘As I Age’ board – is designed to be thought provoking, and to get the conversation started on how we all interpret getting older.

This public art installation is a Feros Care community project, and stands 7 foot high and 40 foot long. This has been adapted from the popular “Before I Die” installations by Candy Chang. There are more than 550 “Before I Die” walls in over 35 languages and 70 countries.

Ms Jennene Buckley, Chief Executive Officer of Feros Care said “As I Age” is all about igniting conversation about growing older.

“In the 24 hours since the Board has had its first public outing, we’re already seeing so many different comments and thoughts. People of all ages are stopping, reading and contributing to the Board.

“This is one of the biggest and most provocative community campaigns Feros has ever done. We work hard to constantly challenge the perceptions and stereotypes of ageing. This public art installation is impossible to ignore, as is ageing!

“I urge everyone to help get the conversation started, and part of the changing face of ageing. Get involved, have some fun, and chalk your comments on the Board.”

Ms Buckley said that there’s already been a positive general reaction to the Board, with complete strangers stopping and taking time out of their day to share their comments.

Some of the many comments to be chalked include:
• ….I don’t want to be homeless
• …I live to love and be loved, and to embrace my future and freedom
• …I realise life is too short…be happy
• …I would like respect
• …Be happy and sexy
• …I ache
• …I long to be with family
• …I do not giggle with a full bladder
• …I would like the horses I follow not to follow other horses

“These comments aren’t always comfortable to read but they are the reality and by getting people to share their perspective, we can aim to make getting older better,” Ms Buckley said.

The Board will be at Cooly Rocks until 7 June 2015. Thereafter, it will then appear at:
• Byron Bay Writers Festival (7-9 August)
• Melbourne Writers Festival (20-30 August)
• Brisbane Writers Festival (2-6 September)

About Feros Care

Feros Care is a multi-award winning not-for-profit organisation that’s been offering quality care and support services for older Australians since 1990. We strive to be a strong ambassador and partner in the lives of seniors. Our focus is on helping seniors to remain living independently, socially connected, healthy and fulfilling lives for as long as possible.

Feros Care offers industry leading services in At Home Care, Residential Care, Telehealthcare, Case Management, and Health & Wellness.
Lisa Murray | Marketing and Media Director