Interactive Art Experiences for Senior Living and Memory Care
DOCENT brings museum-quality art education and sensory cultural experiences directly to senior living facilities, memory care communities, churches, schools, and groups across Middle Tennessee.
Bringing world-class art to your community
Art Experiences for Senior Living, Memory Care and Community Groups
Interactive, museum-inspired programs designed for residents and participants of all ages and abilities.
Impressionist Masterpieces at The Courtauld Gallery
The Courtauld Gallery is located within Somerset House on the Strand in central London. Situated in the heart of the city, the gallery is within walking distance of major hubs including Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, and Bloomsbury. It is inspired by the collecting vision of Samuel Courtauld, known for its many Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.
America's 250th!
Relive the pivotal moments of America's founding — from the Stamp Act to the Declaration of Independence — through vivid storytelling, historical imagery, lively discussion, and authentic flavors of the era.
The Birth of a Nation
The Art of America: A 250-Year Story
Follow the nation from its founding in 1776 to the digital age, examining how American artists have documented, celebrated, questioned, and reimagined the American experience across two and a half centuries.
Remember the Titans!
Follow the Tennessee Titans' remarkable evolution from their 1960 beginnings as a charter AFL team — the Houston Oilers — through back-to-back league titles, relocation, rebranding, and an unforgettable run to Super Bowl XXXIV. Along the way, we celebrate Hall of Fame players, Ring of Honor inductees, legendary coaches, and the dedicated family ownership that built the franchise's lasting legacy.
Musée Marmottan Monet
The Musée Marmottan Monet is a renowned museum housed in a former hunting lodge, celebrated for holding the world's largest collection of works by Claude Monet. It is best known as the home of Impression, Sunrise, the painting that gave the Impressionism movement its name.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
A prolific and influential composer of the Classical era, known for his extraordinary musical talent from a young age. He created over 600 works, including symphonies, operas, and concertos, that remain central to Western classical music.
Senior Living and Memory Care Activities
Serving Franklin, Nashville, Brentwood, and all of Middle Tennessee
DOCENT provides custom museum education and interactive art activities for senior living facilities, memory care communities, assisted living residences, churches, schools, civic groups, and corporate teams. View our full service area to see if we present in your community, or contact us to schedule a program.
A DOCENT session in action — bringing museum-quality art experiences to your community
Why Partner with DOCENT?
- ✓ Flexible scheduling - Sessions tailored to your facility's unique routine and location.
- ✓ No equipment needed - Your DOCENT brings everything needed, with super quick set-up!
- ✓ Experience and sensitivity to all ages/abilities - Tailored programs to meet the needs of seniors, memory care residents, persons with disabilities or other groups with special needs.
- ✓ Customizable content - Suggested selections designed around individual and group interest
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about art experiences for senior living, memory care, and community groups in Middle Tennessee
How long is a DOCENT presentation?
Our standard senior living art experience runs 45-60 minutes, which we find is the ideal length for maintaining engagement while respecting resident energy levels. For memory care groups or residents with limited attention spans, we can shorten the program to 30 minutes. Each session is paced to match the audience, with plenty of time for questions, conversation, and hands-on interaction.
How many residents can attend a session?
We comfortably accommodate 10-40 residents per presentation in Franklin, Nashville, Brentwood, and surrounding Middle Tennessee communities. For larger senior living facilities, we can schedule multiple back-to-back sessions. Smaller groups of 15-25 residents often create the most interactive and memorable experience, especially for memory care and assisted living audiences.
What equipment does the facility need to provide?
We bring everything needed for the program: screen, projector, sound system, life-size art replicas, sensory materials, and presentation supplies. Facilities only need to provide a room with chairs for residents and access to electrical outlets. Setup takes about 15 minutes, and we handle all breakdown and cleanup.
What is the format of a DOCENT art experience?
DOCENT sessions are highly interactive, not lectures. We encourage questions, personal stories, and conversation. Residents can handle replicas, smell scented materials related to the artwork, and participate at their comfort level. No prior art knowledge is required, making the program accessible and engaging for senior living, memory care, church, school, and community groups across Middle Tennessee.
Do you offer programs for memory care residents?
Yes. Memory care programming is one of our specialties. We use multi-sensory elements, familiar imagery, and a flexible, conversation-based format designed to spark recognition and engagement. Our DOCENT has experience working with residents at various cognitive levels and adapts pacing and content to support a positive, dignified experience.
What areas in Middle Tennessee do you serve?
DOCENT serves senior living facilities, memory care centers, churches, schools, and community groups throughout Middle Tennessee, including Franklin, Nashville, Brentwood, Cool Springs, Spring Hill, Nolensville, Murfreesboro, Hendersonville, and Gallatin. Contact us to confirm availability in your community.
Can you customize a presentation for our facility?
Absolutely. We tailor themes, pacing, and sensory elements to the interests and needs of your residents or group. Whether you prefer Impressionist masterpieces, American history, classical music, or seasonal topics, we can design a program that fits your calendar and audience.
How much does a DOCENT program cost?
Our single session pricing starts at $599 for a 45-60 minute interactive art experience. We also offer a monthly series of three themed experiences for $1,600, which saves $200 compared to booking individual sessions. Custom packages are available for recurring partnerships. Contact us for a quote tailored to your facility.
Testimonials
"Ivey is so knowledgeable and her passion for art is inspirational!"
Sarah M.
Audience member, Nashville
"Talk, think and see fine art close up again!"
Margret B.
Audience member, Franklin
"The DOCENT experience was fun, Interesting and engaging and would recommend."
Stephanie R.
Audience member, Franklin
Our Mission and Values
Mission
Our mission is to provide human-led interactive, immersive educational experiences exploring the appreciation of beauty in the arts, history and travel to affinity groups in a community based setting, led by an expert for life enhancement and enjoyment.
Our Values
- 1. Appreciation of beauty and knowledge are necessary for life fulfillment.
- 2. Life is to be highly valued at every age.
- 3. Excellence and effort are essential to worth.
- 4. Time and humanity are our most precious assets.
- 5. Shared experiences bring joy and understanding to all.
- 6. Growth comes through exploration and persistence.
- 7. The pursuit of happiness should be unwavering and unending.
- 8. Creativity is inherent to betterment in individuals and societies.
- 9. Freedom is an attribute of the mind first and foremost.
- 10. Imagination is endless and progressive.
"A society's civility is measured by how it cares for, respects, and cherishes its elderly citizens, ensuring them dignity, quality healthcare, and inclusion rather than isolation.
Intelligence amplified
for abundant living!™
Meet Your Docent
Ivey Barna brings the museum to you — interactive, expert-led art experiences designed for senior living, memory care, churches, schools, and community groups across Middle Tennessee.
M.A. Art History
University of Cincinnati (DAAP)
Years Teaching
Higher Education and Museum Programs
Tennessee Native
Serving Franklin, Nashville and Beyond
Museum Certified
Gallery, Critic and Curatorial Experience
"My goal is to make every resident feel like a VIP museum guest—regardless of their prior art knowledge or physical limitations."
Pricing
Transparent pricing for every budget
Single Session
tier pricing starting at
- ✓ 45-60 minute presentation
- ✓ Up to 30 residents
- ✓ All equipment included
- ✓ Sensory materials
- ✓ Travel within 25 miles
Monthly Series
for 3 sessions
- ✓ 3 themed presentations
- ✓ Up to 40 residents
- ✓ All equipment included
- ✓ Customizable themes
- ✓ Travel within 40 miles
- ✓ Save $200
Annual Partnership
tailored programs
- ✓ 12+ sessions per year
- ✓ Unlimited residents
- ✓ Exclusive content
- ✓ Priority scheduling
- ✓ Family event options
All packages include setup, breakdown, and travel within specified radius.
Additional mileage charged at $1.50/mile beyond included radius.
Themed Experiences
Themed presentations for holidays and special occasions
Seasonal experiences
Winter Holidays
Nativity scenes in art, winter landscapes, and festive celebrations through the ages
Spring Renewal
Blooming gardens, pastoral scenes, and the Impressionists' love of nature
Summer Escapes
Beach scenes, Mediterranean views, and the Côte d'Azur sunshine
Autumn Reflections
Golden landscapes, harvest themes, and the beauty of change
Also: Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Veterans Day
Focused experiences
🏛️ Museum/Location
Louvre, National Gallery, MET, MoMA, Frick Gallery, and more
🎨 Artist
Picasso, Michelangelo, Matisse, Bacon, and other masters
📚 Movement
Impressionism, Italian Renaissance, Modern movements, Antique art
✝️ Religious Art
A comprehensive survey of sacred art through the centuries
Deep dive: Specific artists, movements, or collections
City Tours/Experiences
🌍 European Cities
Paris, London, Rome, Athens, Madrid, Berlin and more
🏰 Historic Sites
Castles, Monasteries, Palaces, Cathedrals, and ancient ruins
🗺️ Virtual Journeys
Travel through art and architecture without leaving your facility
🎭 Cultural Immersion
Experience the art, history, and culture of destinations worldwide
Armchair travel: Explore the world through masterpieces
Request a Booking
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Questions?
We're here to help. Reach out anytime.
Docent4U
hello@docent4u.com | (615) 969-6468
📍 Franklin, TN — Serving Middle Tennessee
Available Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm CST