IAC grant to fund seniors’ art classes in South Whitley

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Local senior citizens, I t’s a time to explore new interests or revive a talent shelved by the hustle and bustle of day-to day life at South Whitley Community Public Library.

The South Whitley Community Public Library was recently awarded a $5,000 grant from the Indiana Arts Commission to provide a program for older citizens who are ready to explore their creative nature. 

Artist Natalee Wright worked with the library to create the program, Ageless Expressions: Artistic Journey at SWCPL, which will provide those age 60 and over with the opportunity to learn acrylic painting fundamentals or help those who have put their creativity on hold to reignite it. 

“I’m truly honored to have the chance to paint with the seniors at South Whitley Public Library,” said Wright,“and am looking forward to the creativity and stories that will unfold from this artistic endeavor!”

Wright creates in a small studio on her family’s farm outside of Columbia City. She uses art as a pathway to promote growth, healing and creativity.

“We are thankful to be working with a talented artist like Natalee to bring this program to our community. We are looking forward to being able to connect participants and to inspire new and creative ideas through art,” said Cody Abbott, Director of SWCPL. 

The program consists of two, five-week sessions that will help participants of all skill levels develop the ability to enjoy painting as a life-long hobby. Classes will meet every Wednesday at 1 p.m. beginning July 24 and concluding on Aug. 21. The second session begins the following week, Aug. 28, and ends Oct. 2. Classes will meet at the library and last approximately one hour.

Each class will be devoted to working with the fundamentals of acrylic painting and building upon what is learned in the previous session. Participants can register for one or both sessions. Class size is limited to 12. There is no cost to the program as the grant covers supplies and the artist/instructor fee. Registration for the program is now underway. Register by calling or visiting the library.

This activity is made possible in part by the Indiana Arts Commission, which receives support from the State of Indiana and the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration’s Division of Aging.