Memory Cafe
The Burchfield Penney Art Center is committed to making the museum and its vast collection of Western New York art accessible to all community members. In keeping with this mission, Friends of the Burchfield Penney Memory Café is specifically designed for people with Alzheimer's and their caregivers to inspire joy and make connections.
Our Memory Café provides a stimulating and comfortable setting to spend time together in an art museum. The sessions will include interactive tours and hands-on art activities in a creative and safe environment. We'll begin by welcoming participants to the museum. Guests will visit the galleries and have conversations together about the artworks. Followed by a hands-on art-making experience in the Useum Studio, reflecting on what they viewed in the galleries.
The Burchfield Penney Memory Cafe offers an inclusive, stress-free, and social experience, ensuring every participant feels welcome and engaged in a supportive community setting.
Upcoming Memory Cafes at the Center Learn More
Register for Memory Cafe at the Center
FAQs
What is a Memory Café?
A Memory Café offers a supportive and social environment where caregivers and individuals with memory challenges (such as Alzheimer’s or another dementia) can enjoy respite through informal conversations and active participation in shared activities. It’s a welcoming space designed for spending quality time together and fostering connections.
What to expect?
- The Burchfield Penney Art Center Memory Cafe meets every first Wednesday or the month from 10:00 -11:30 am.
- Each session of Memory Cafe is facilitated by our trained Education Department staff and docents.
- Our sessions include a tour and art-making activity in our Useum Studio. All art supplies are included.
- Light refreshments will be provided.
Who participants in the Memory Cafe?
- A caregivers bring their loved one, a family member, friend, or individual they are taking care of.
- The caregiver and their loved one participate together in the galleries and art-making activity.
What do I bring?
Items to ensure your loved one is comfortable while at the museum.
Where do I park?
The parking lot in front of the museum entrance is free from 9:45 am – 12:30 pm.
How do I register?
Please fill out the registration form above to sign up for our monthly sessions.
How assessable is the Burchfield Penney?
- The main entrance is wheelchair accessible.
- Accessible parking is available in our parking lot. These spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Caregivers can drop off their loved one in the roundabout at the main entrance. A Burchfield Penney staff-member will assist your loved one in the lobby while you find parking. Parking is free during Memory Cafe sessions from 9:45 am – 12:30 pm.
- Wheelchairs are available in the coat room.
- Portable stools will be available in the gallery.
- Restrooms and an accessible family restroom are on the first floor, near the gallery entrance.
What do after Memory Cafe?
Enjoy lunch at Roux Cafe, located in the museum lobby!