Londonderry Retirement Community recently held an exhibit featuring the artwork of its residents. The artwork was a compilation of watercolors, oils, pastels, and collages. The resident’s “Art Group” atLondonderry is a group of novice and experienced artists who gather twice a month from September to May to try their hands at a variety of mixed media. The group has been meeting regularly for four years and continues to add new members.
Resident Betty Blumenberg, who leads the group, has been an artist for over 40 years. She studied art at Maryland Institute of Art and at St Francis College, as well as attended numerous workshops over the years. She comments, “I love seeing the artists progress and showing them different approaches and mediums. It is a joy just seeing them enjoying what they are doing.”
The current group of six artists find the fellowship of the group as important as creating their art. Through their time together a number of hidden talents have emerged, including residents Evelyn and Dick Torraca, who had never had an art class. Dick Torraca says, “This group is something we wanted to do together as a couple. Through Betty’s inspiration, we have created what we never thought we could do.”
Rosemary Soldano, who has been an artist for some time, has enjoyed being introduced to the art of collage. She states, “It has been a lot of fun doing collage. I have collected items to incorporate into my art and then I watch it evolve.” She adds, “Art is a great hobby for when you are older. You can keep the supplies nearby and pick them up when you want to.”
According to Janice L. Johnston, Activities and Resident Services Coordinator at Londonderry, “The fellowship of groups like the Art Group, is so important to our residents. They get to explore new hobbies while making friends and socializing. I am amazed at the talent here.”