As the doors closed to the public, guests were invited to explore centuries of artistic genius.

But what made this night special wasn’t just the exclusive access; It was the way the art in this quiet, intimate moment stirred up emotions we hadn’t anticipated.

Riverstone proudly supported and celebrated the Hockney & Piero: A Longer Look exhibition at The National Gallery in its bicentennial year. The exclusive private reception allowed our prospects, residents and reservists to view Hockney’s masterpieces and be among the first to view the spectacular ‘Van Gough: Poets and Lovers’.

Why Moments Like This Matter

In our later years, it’s easy to assume that life’s greatest moments are behind us.

But at Riverstone, we believe the opposite. Life is what we make of it and we can still find ourselves in amazing moments - ones that can reignite curiosity, spark new connections, and help us see the world with fresh eyes.

The Neural Power of Emotional Engagement

Loneliness can be a quiet companion as we age, creeping in as life slows. But we can prevent this if we keep ourselves moving and social.

When we engage with art - especially in a setting as intimate as this one - it does something more than just entertain us. Research in the field of neuro-aesthetics reveals that our brains are wired to respond to art on multiple levels.

Engaging with artworks activates regions associated with reward and emotion, allowing us to feel a range of emotions deeply (Mastandrea, Fagioli, Biasi 2019).

For some, standing alone without the usual busy crowd, in front of a Van Gogh painting or Hockney’s reinterpretations, was an emotional journey in the best way. It acts as a reminder that life is still full of meaning and beauty can be found in something as simple as a starry night sky.

Building Community Through Shared Experiences

At Riverstone, we understand that a community is built on more than just shared spaces - it’s built on shared experiences.

Our aim is to provide opportunities that enrich our residents' lives, giving them access to moments that inspire and foster connections.

Whether it’s a private evening at The National Gallery or a coffee morning with our General Managers, we create experiences that engage both the heart and the mind.

In the end, it’s not just about having a beautiful place to live - it’s about feeling alive within that space.

(Mastandrea, Fagioli, Biasi 2019)
Frontiers | Art and Psychological Well-Being: Linking the Brain to the Aesthetic Emotion (frontiersin.org)