Neshkinukat: We Are All Related – This touring Native American Art Show features the work of 17 elder Native American artists. Artists, residents, and guests filled the halls and Art Gallery at LBSAC for the Opening Reception of this touring exhibition. Attendees commented on the exceptional artwork and craft items that were featured, and enjoyed the food and hospitality. Eric, a Native American musician, played on his authentic flute instruments, providing the perfect audio ambience. “Neshkinukat- We Are All Related” will be on display through the end of April.
Black History Month: This resident-hosted event brought together food and friends of different cultures in celebration of BHM. The Community Center was beautifully decorated, and included informative posters and pictures of inventors and noteworthy people. Andrea and Sandra prepared the delicious spread of food, which featured a variety of cultural delights. (Photo: Shirl and Shirley perform a skit for the BHM luncheon.)
The Art Workshop is dedicated to exposing students to different forms of creative expression through sculpture, painting in oils and watercolors, and drawing. Instructor Tania Cruz reports: Many students have finished their replication projects and have been given a new assignment focusing on nature, which will be the theme for the upcoming art show in May. Ethel brought in a chair, and she and other residents are planning to refinish and paint it.
Colette Brown’s Intro to Ceramics class instructs residents on working with clay, from learning different techniques of building through glazing and firing the work. One of the residents remarked with a playful grin, “I just came down here to make Christmas tree ornaments [last December], and now I’m stuck down here [sculpting busts]!”
Instructor Toni Byrd’s Beading and Jewelry-Making class teaches residents the art of making wearable art. This new class was a big hit with ten residents enjoying the sessions. Each student left with a finished product including earrings and bracelets. The class first learned the basics, such as the tools: what they are used for and how to use them properly. The greatest moments are when the students skillfully create their own, personal designs.
Reader’s Theater is led by a former stage manager and writer, resident volunteer Barbara Fay. The members meet weekly to read short plays out loud to share their passion for the Dramatic Arts and forge lasting friendships. Barbara reports: “February was exciting, productive and FUN! Starting on 2/6, the actors were giddy with surprises. With 10 actors present for the rehearsal, they all shared their surprise and delight with the turn out for the January performance. The cast asked to host the cast party for the January show and prepared a ‘Celebrity Celebration.’ The VR room was decked out with decorations and a dazzling array of homemade dishes. The troupe members and guest were grinning with Cheshire Cat smiles as they greeted me with cheers and hugs! They showered me with love and praise, and presented me with a Tribute Plaque. Helene was there with floral bouquets for everyone.”
Gardening Class: This hands-on, once a week community project teaches residents how to garden, work with the earth, and grow food to eat. Gardening promotes nutrition, community building and overall well-being. The garden reaped the rewards of the recent rain and the gardeners were happy to find the lovely fresh lettuce that was delicious. With the uncommon weather, some produce did not get a chance to remain dormant long enough. The papayas are still green and are being carefully taken care of. All the leaves are being cut back and they are still sprouting new growth. The gardeners diligently feed and nourish both trees with tender loving care.
Film maker, Jennifer Abod attended the Readers’ Theatre show last month and talked about her film, The Passionate Pursuits of Angela Bowen. Several residents bought discounted tickets for a special opening at the Arts Theatre. They loved the film, and both Jennifer and Angela have become friends of the LBSAC community.
~ Helene Weinberg, Creative Programs Director
EngAGE offers a variety of classes, workshops, and special programs at each of our communities. These posts highlight just a small sample.
