An internationally recognised, innovative art therapy program founded by artist Nancy Tingey

Founded in 1994, the Tingey Painting with Parkinsons Program provides opportunities for people with Parkinson’s disease to express their emotions and thoughts through art, in a safe and supportive environment.

The program follows a structured methodology to bring about significant benefits to participants, including social, societal, emotional, and psychological wellbeing, as well as improvement in physical capacity and reduction in tremors.

The Canberra Symphony Orchestra (CSO) supports the program by providing regular live music, pairing musicians with painters in the serene settings of the Australian National Botanic Gardens. This longstanding collaboration has produced a cohesive and powerful body of artwork and profoundly rewarding relationships between artists and musicians.

“I was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s in my mid-40s. I hadn’t painted before but when I was given the paints and the paper was put in front of me, I started to paint and I felt this deep sensation inside of me. I was able to listen to the music and express myself through painting. And the shaking stopped. It was magical.” Juli Azzopardi

“I particularly enjoy the sessions when we have the visiting musician from the Canberra Symphony Orchestra play for us. It lifts my energy and I move more freely. Music is integral and an essential part of the painting sessions and I disappear into it.” Jan Robbins