A launch point for dialogue on ageism, social isolation, and aging with dignity.
Opening January 29, 2026.
This traveling art exhibit explores stereotypes, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors towards ourselves and other based on age.
Conceived of and curated by Dr. Stacey Gordon, and sponsored by the NYU Office of the Provost.
Original Exhibit art by Aubrey Hirsh.
Contact: Rachel Kertz
[email protected], (415) 299-7008
January 29, 2026, 5:00-7:00 pm
Marin Civic Center, San Rafael
Join us for the opening of the “What About Age?” Exhibit, a vibrant and thought-provoking exploration of creativity, connection, and age.
With over one-third of Marin residents projected to be over 60 by 2030, What About Age? highlights the urgent need for awareness, inclusivity, and services that support older adults while reducing ageism.
The exhibit created and shown at NYU, challenges stereotypes and attitudes about aging through striking graphic art panels that blend modern design with real-world facts.
Additional programming will feature expert speakers, workshops, tours, trainings, and cultural storytelling to foster understanding and connection across generations and cultures.
Explore More
Learn more about the national What About Age exhibit through this special eblast originally shared by NYU Kimmel Windows. The eblast includes background on the exhibit, media coverage, info about the artist, and more.
A Call to Confront Ageism and Celebrate Aging
San Rafael Councilmember Rachel Kertz and Vivalon CEO Kaushik Roy explore how art, community, and dialogue can help reshape perceptions of aging in the Marin Independent Journal, highlighting What About Age and the broader effort to build a more inclusive, age-friendly community.
Watch the Panel Discussion:
The Power of Art to Shift the Narrative on Aging
Hear from leading experts in aging, health, and culture—including Dr. Stacey Gordon (NYU), Dr. Becca Levy (Yale), Dr. Ernest Gonzales (NYU), and artist Aubrey Hirsch—as they explore how art can challenge stereotypes and reshape how we view aging.
Bridging Generations Through Art
Youth in Arts and the I AM Program
Youth in Arts Intensive Arts Mentorship (I AM), is a paid visuals arts mentorship program for teens. The I AM program furthers Youth in Arts mission by offering mentorship, job training, and early pathways into the creative sector for teens from Marin’s underserved communities. Participants gain technical and professional skills, and contribute to meaningful cultural conversations through the conceptualization and installation of public art. Their work addresses social justice, builds cultural understanding, and strengthens community.
The What About Age? Collaboration
This fall and winter, Youth in Arts is partnering with Marin Cultural Association and Marin County leaders on What About Age?, an intergenerational arts project exploring themes of ageism through visual storytelling. The culminating exhibit will be on view at the Marin Civic Center Galleries from January 26 through May 7, 2026, featuring collaborative works by 20 youth artists (ages 13–19) from the I AM Program, and 20 older adult artists (ages 65+). Under the guidance of Youth in Arts teaching artists, these emerging and established artists will work side by side to explore how age intersects with creativity, identity, and lived experience, fostering connection and dialogue across generations.
Partners
County of Marin
Marin Community Foundation
Vivalon
Youth in Arts
Marin County Arts and Culture
Marin County Library
Sponsorship Opportunities Available
Project Team
Rachel Kertz
Marin Visionary Leader
Dr. Stacey Gordon
Creator and Curator
Julie Wilder
Project Manager
Pamela Jean
NYU Public Arts Curator
Paula Doubleday
Graphic Designer
Libby Garrison
County of Marin – Arts & Culture
Taylor Buttrey
Youth in Arts, Executive Director
Morgan Schauffler
Youth in Arts Director of External Affairs
Contact us at [email protected]
Resources
Old School: A Hub for Age Equity & Ageism Awareness
Old School offers free resources, connections, and collaborations to dismantle ageism and advance a world where everyone can live long and live well.
Aging Action Initiative (AAI): Government Aging Agencies
A guide to understanding the many abbreviations and roles of government aging agencies—what they do, how they differ, and how they work together.
Marin County Area Agency on Aging – Area Plan 2024-2028
A guiding four-year blueprint outlining the priorities, strategies, and services that the County and its partners will deliver to support Marin’s older adults and caregivers from 2024 to 2028.
Watch Thanks, Babs! (Film)
View the film online using the link below. Password: Buckette!
