They say in retirement you can find new found talents and passions or if nothing else, have time to immerse yourself in them.  This has certainly been the case at Londonderry Retirement Community in Easton where a new artist community has sprung up among the residents there.

The new group, called the Resident Art Group, meets weekly to work on their artwork and to critique each other’s work.  According to Londonderryresident Rosemary Soldano, who has always had an interest in art, but didn’t explore it as a hobby until after retirement, “The group includes people who have been artists for a while, as well as people who are new to art.  It’s great to be able to see what others are doing.”  She adds, “Art is something you can still do throughout the aging process.”

Since 2004, Londonderry has offered its residents the opportunity to explore art through a variety of classes.  It wasn’t until this past May, however, that a Resident Art Show was hung in the Londonderry Community Center, showcasing some of the residents’ work.  Resident Bill Kepner, a professional photographer, comments, “The best thing that happened here was hanging this show for our residents.  Through having their artwork displayed throughout the building, it has allowed us to see their art in a new light. In addition, a number of new artists have emerged.”

The Resident Art Group also provides ideas and inspiration for its members.  While resident Nancy Orr has taken painting and drawing workshops over the years, she comments, “Through this group we really provide encouragement for one another and can help each other with ideas, as well as finding supplies for what we are working on.”

For those new Londonderry artists, like Evelyn and Dick Torraca, there is enjoyment in learning from the other more experienced artists.  Since joining the group, Dick, who has a background in drafting and construction, and his wife Evelyn, have discovered a common interest in collage.

According to Londonderry’s Activities Director, Elaine Utley, “We have so many talented residents, both in the fine arts, as well as in needlework. Our residents might be retired from getting a paycheck, but they are not retired from life.  Many are still giving back through the arts and we are thrilled they are sharing their gifts and talents with one another and with the public.”

For further information about Londonerry’s Resident Art Group, contact Elaine Utley at 410-820-8732.