08/13/2026
Purple Art co-founders Abby Sivy and Cindy Parker are using the power of creativity to enrich the lives of older adults through their Boulder, CO-based nonprofit, which brings art experiences to seniors in settings ranging from independent living communities to memory care. Drawing on backgrounds in both art and senior care, they focus not on artistic skill or the finished product, but on the joy, dignity, self-expression, and connection that come from the creative process.
Their approach encourages participants to explore freely without fear of judgment, helping many rediscover a love for art later in life. Sivy and Parker have seen firsthand how creative activities can spark engagement, evoke emotions, provide comfort during difficult times, and even help individuals with memory loss connect with the world around them. Through their work, they demonstrate that creativity is not only a form of self-expression but also a meaningful tool for supporting emotional well-being and quality of life as people age.
Photos by Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite