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Remembering through art, supporting through care
Photography by Norrie Montgomery
Kerry Switzer with his two daughters.
‘Standing Kowhai’ by Paul Dibble.
Singer-songwriter Nathan King, the MC for the evening.
When Kerry Switzer chose to share his private art collection in memory of his late wife Rosie, Artful Minds became so much more than an exhibition – it became a gesture of love that will touch many lives.
As the primary fundraiser for Dementia Auckland, proceeds from the event will directly support Living Well programmes. Living Well includes walking groups, art sessions, singing, young onset gatherings, and Cognitive Stimulation Therapy – evidence-based activities that help people living with dementia | mate wareware maintain brain function, build confidence, and feel part of a supportive community.
The evening drew more than 140 attendees – from corporate leaders to health executives and art lovers – gathering high above the city at Deloitte’s Queen Street headquarters. With sweeping views of the Waitematā Harbour, the atrium became a showcase for New Zealand’s finest art, from Goldie and McCahon to Frances Hodgkins, Max Gimblett, Shane Cotton and Paul Dibble’s striking two-metre ‘Standing Kowhai’.
Singer-songwriter Nathan King guided the evening as MC, opening with personal reflections on his own family’s experience of dementia before welcoming guests and setting the scene for a night of excitement and purpose.
The event also included a panel discussion, The Art of Ageing Well, guided by Dementia Auckland Foundation Director, Patrick Fogarty. The panel brought genuine hope for progress in prevention efforts and reassurance that there are actions people can take to support brain health.
Guests also raised their paddles for a spectacular Karl Maughan auction, adding another flourish of generosity, while Gow Langsford donated 10% of every sale to support Dementia Auckland’s programmes.
Reflecting on the evening, Jocelyn Weatherall, Chairperson of Dementia Auckland, said the event was truly memorable, featuring inspirational speakers, fine art, and a shared commitment to helping all people impacted by dementia.
“Kerry’s gift in memory of Rosie was an extraordinary act of generosity. Combined with the backing of our partners and the support of the many wonderful people in the room, his legacy will enable services that will touch countless families within our dementia community.
“Events like Artful Minds demonstrate the best of who we are when we work together to support others; we’re deeply grateful to all of our supporters.”
An estimated 80,000 people are currently affected by dementia in Aotearoa New Zealand, with that number expected to more than double in the next 25 years. As demand grows, community-led services will be essential because the health system alone cannot meet the scale of need.
“Living Well isn’t government funded,” explains Marsha Marshall, Chief Executive of Dementia Auckland. “It’s only through the support of our community and the generosity that comes from events like Artful Minds that we can keep these groups running. They give people with dementia the chance to engage in healthy, stimulating activities and to feel valued – to live well.
“We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended the event, and supports us to deliver our Living Well programme.”
As well as Kerry and his whānau, Dementia Auckland would like to thank all of the people who gave their time and energy to make Artful Minds possible, as well as the generosity of Deloitte and the Gow Langsford Gallery, who helped bring the event to life.
“We look forward to building on this success and anticipate that Artful Minds will become a regular part of our events calendar,” said Jocelyn. “It represents a true win-win – securing valuable funding to support our work, while giving guests an inspiring evening, and art to adorn their homes and offices.”
To learn more about the Living Well programme and how you can support this work, visit Dementia Auckland.
