Brushing away boredom, one painting at a time
A group of Nellmapius seniors has turned creativity into purpose as they showcased years of visual art training at a local exhibition. They are proof that it’s never too late to learn something new.
The Togetherness Senior Citizen club in Nellmapius showcased their works of art at the Nellmapius Skills Development Centre on Saturday.
The group of more than 20 senior citizens were introduced to visual art by Umzebo Omhle Creative Arts in 2021.
They held an exhibition to raise funds to buy painting materials, according to Vuyani Nxedlane of Umzebo Omhle Creative.
Nxedlane said the senior citizens have mastered and improved their art through years of training.
“The visual art programme was also part of fighting boredom among senior citizens and keeping them busy,” he said.
He said it was not easy, as the elderly have different challenges.
“Some of the elderly people have challenges with hearing, sight or writing, but the one-on-one sessions helped a lot,” he said.
Nxedlane said that, at first, the elders said their works of art were not for sale and they were planning to hold onto the pieces forever, but he persuaded them to hold an exhibition.
The exhibition was open to everyone and the community and other senior citizens’ clubs from Mamelodi came to support them.
Nxedlane said during the introduction of visual arts, the elderly participants were taught about different styles of art, from pencil sketches, charcoal, graphite, water colouring and acrylic.
Sonto Mabena of the club said their art teacher was very patient.
“Some of us have never drawn anything in our lives. We were struggling to hold even a pencil, but our trainer was patient and made it easy for us.
“The most important thing about the programme is that it has also helped us to fight boredom and to discover our hidden talents,” she said.
“We are always looking forward to come to the centre to learn more about visual art, and we no longer stress about social issues,” said Mabena.
She further pleaded with the community and local businessmen to support them by buying their art.
Anyone who wishes to support the visual art programme by donating painting materials can contact Nxedlani on 082 590 1994.
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