Published by the Baring Foundation in London, the book reveals 80 projects offering all forms of creative arts activities to older people from Europe, Asia, the US, Australia and New Zealand.

The Baring Foundation is an independent group seeking to advance human rights and promote inclusion. From 2010-2019 the Foundation's arts programme has focused on creative activity by older people. The book was written by David Cutler, Director of the Baring Foundation since 2003 who runs the Foundation's Arts programme.

The forward is by Kate Arthurs, Director, Arts at the British Council, who notes that:

With stigmas of ageism and ableism prevailing - not to mention issues of age and isolation correlating positively, we need to find a way to bring people together across the divides so often determined by difference. In our experience, arts are a crucial tool when seeking to connect those who wouldn't otherwise meet. Connecting, learning and partnering with those who have more experience than us in this field is also critical if we are to find new ways of addressing shared challenges.

The Mid North Coast Creative Ageing Festival is one of only six Australian projects showcased in the book.

Executive Director of Arts Mid North Coast, Kevin Williams said he was thrilled the organisation was selected.

"To be showcased along with projects from major bodies such as the Sydney Museum of Contemporary Art and the Queensland Ballet highlights how community based programs can still make a major contribution to innovation in creative ageing," Mr Williams said.

The publication can be found online https://artsmidnorthcoast.com/smart-art/around-the-world-in-80-creative-ageing-projects/

The fourth Mid North Coast Festival kicks off next week - check out the program at artsmidnorthcoast.com/creative-ageing-festival/.

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