Tauranga people, memories and milestones are being brought to life through paint and creativity in Dementia Tauranga’s third annual Artful Mind exhibition.

On show at The People’s Gallery in Tauranga’s Historic Village, the exhibition pairs six local artists with people living with dementia, turning their stories, experiences and passions into original artworks.

Among the stories is that of Ian Middleton, who loved the outdoors, enjoyed walking the Milford Track and married his wife Maureen at St Paul’s Methodist Church in 1966.

Tauranga artist and geriatric psychiatrist Dr Bronwyn Copeland has brought those two significant places together in a painting inspired by Ian’s memories.

Copeland said the project is meaningful for the client and the artist.

“It is great brain exercise for the artists thinking how they can meaningfully capture the client in a composition,” Copeland said.

“When the work is for sale and not for the client, it adds another layer of complexity, as it has to be generic enough to work in other people’s homes but also true to the individual’s story and this was one of the challenges with Ian’s piece.”

St Paul's Methodist Church and Milford Track were depicted in Dr Bronwyn Copeland’s painting of Ian Middleton’s story.

Another work features Liz Dooley, who was born and raised in Fiji, depicted in traditional tapa-inspired clothing, and surrounded by vibrant hibiscus flowers. A wonderfully positive person, her painting reflects her love of her Pasifika nation, colour and the tropical plant.

Artists involved in 2026’s exhibition include Copeland, Steph Harlan, Anne Shirley, Lynette Fisher, Jayna Caudwell and Laura Penny.

The Artful Mind project was launched in 2024 to challenge perceptions around dementia and celebrate the person behind the diagnosis. Artists spend time getting to know their subjects, listening to their stories and learning about experiences and relationships that shaped their lives.

For Copeland, a geriatric psychiatrist and artist, the project brought together two important parts of her professional and creative life.

“Art can be so powerful and meaningful. This project elevates art to something more than beauty – it captures meaning, tells a story and leaves a legacy and is a blessing to all involved,” she said.

Dementia Tauranga chief executive Glenn Bradley said each artwork provides an opportunity to connect with the person and the story behind the diagnosis.

The Middleton painting by Copeland will be offered via silent auction, with proceeds going to Dementia Tauranga’s community services.

Sponsored by Gate Pā New World, Artful Mind is open 10am-3pm daily until October 17 at The People’s Gallery.