The Changing Brain: Alzheimer’s and Art
Landrau-Partan Gallery at Falmouth Art Center
January 5 to February 2
Making art is a calming, therapeutic activity no matter who is doing it. But for people with Alzheimer’s Disease, it can be a cherished respite from routine, for both the patient and caregiver.
The paintings in the “Changing Brain” show were made by Don Burnette of East Falmouth, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2021. His wife, Suzy Burnette, has organized this part of the show.
The show features paintings by Mr. Burnette labeled “before” and “after,” which refers to before and after his dementia diagnosis.
Don Burnette spent the majority of his career employed by the Falmouth Public Schools, teaching students in Biology and Earth Sciences for over 30 years, as well as serving as a house administrator at Falmouth High School.
During this time, he also founded and ran the Falmouth Taekwondo Club.
Following his retirement from teaching, Mr. Burnette spent the next ten years managing the Ecosystems Lab at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole.
Throughout his adult life, he pursued his art as a hobby and creative outlet.
Despite his dementia and Alzheimer’s diagnosis and the progression of his disease, Don has never stopped creating, according to his wife, Suzy. “He continues to spend time drawing peacefully and making new art,” she said.
Mr. Burnette’s work is paired with ceramics made by people with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers in a free bimonthly ceramics class at Falmouth Art Center.
The class is made possible through a partnership with the Alzheimer’s Family Support Center of Cape Cod.
The class has been underway at the Art Center since 2019. Over the years, dozens of couples have participated and appreciated the opportunity for creativity and the peaceful time together.
When one participant came to pick up her pottery made in the class, she said making the colorful plate was the last thing she and her husband did together before he passed away—a priceless memento of their love and partnership.
Professional potter and ceramics instructor Kim Sheerin has taught the class since its start in 2019. Students sign up to attend through the Family Support Center.
