Peakhurst Seniors Art from the Heart Exhibition Raises $1121 for Charity

An exhibition of paintings lovingly created by a group of local women at a weekly art therapy class held at IRT Peakhurst Retirement Village has been a great success.

Aptly called Art from the Heart, the exhibition displayed approximately 40 paintings of which 20 were sold raising $560 for cancer research. A raffle and gold coin donations raised a further $561 for charity.

IRT Group Executive General Manager – Retirement Villages, Stig Andersen attended the exhibition along with a crowd of more than 30 friends, families and members of the Peakhurst community.

“It was wonderful to see so many people supporting our residents and raising money for such a worthy cause,” Mr Andersen said.

The exhibiting artists have been attending the art therapy class since it began a year ago when a former visual arts teacher completing a work placement at IRT saw the opportunity for it. Now a care worker, the former teacher runs the two-hour art class every Thursday morning.

Mr Andersen says it’s clear how much joy the art class brings to everyone involved.

“We’re thrilled with the enthusiasm the residents bring to the class and the support they show each other,” Mr Andersen said.

“A few of the residents didn’t even know they could paint until they attended these classes, so we’ve discovered some real hidden talent along the way too.”

The weekly art classes have become more than just a place to make art. The classes have helped residents connect with one another, build new friendships, and have a laugh together.  

“Some really special bonds have formed between the class-goers,” Mr Andersen said.

“We’re proud of the positive impacts the class is having on our residents’ lives.”

People who participate in art therapy when they’re older can experience a range pf physical, cognitive and psychological benefits.

The art class is held each Thursday from 9 – 11am in the Bonnet Centre at IRT Peakhurst Retirement Village. All are welcome. For more information call 134 478.

Find out more about IRT.