“A friend encouraged me to join the weekly art classes and I reluctantly went to my first session. I had no art experience prior to moving to Hillsview,” she recalls.

Once I started painting, I was hooked and now I attend every week.

I enjoy the companionship and there’s a real sense of accomplishment from the art I produce.

“Each class I attend, I learn more – it’s a very encouraging and supportive environment.”

Lorna started taking art classes at Levande's Hillsview Community soon after moving into the community in 2018. The classes are run by fellow resident and long-time painting enthusiast, Ian Finlay.

The free classes in the communities' arts-and-crafts centre attract around 12 residents each week.

The group showcased their work at ‘Arts Alive’ Artists’ Exhibition held at Hillsview.

Their artworks cover a variety of media including oil on canvas, water colours, acrylics and pastels.

Up to 70 paintings were on display from portraits to landscape, animals and still-life.

Darren Ward, Hillsview Village Manager, said he was extremely proud of the dedicated group of emerging artists.

“We have an extremely talented group of residents and the art classes have provided them with a solid foundation to grow and develop their passion and skills in art and painting.

“The painting classes have brought many of our residents together, started new friendships, and helped maintain and improve their artistic and cognitive skills.”