Adding Love, Light and Colour to Local Nursing Home

As an artist, I receive several requests to donate work to charity auctions and events every year. It simply wouldn’t be feasible for me to say yes to all of them. So, like with many things, I go with my gut feeling and assess whether the project is aligned with my own mission.

When I heard about the Masonic Park Art Project back in February, I lit up. What a great idea! This project vibrated with the love of beauty and the beauty of love.

Lorna Yard, the organizer, put out a call for 40 artists to help bring joy and colour to the rooms of residents at the Masonic Park Nursing Home. Her own father, Cyril, is a resident at the nursing home. When he moved in, Lorna lovingly decorated his room, but many of the other residents didn’t have anyone to do the same for them.

In her words:

“These are the people who built a world for us, who raised our parents, who tended our communities, and who we owe everything to. I felt they deserve something beautiful to remind them of how beautiful they are.”

She had no trouble signing up 40 crafts people, painters, photographers, etc.

A couple of weeks ago, we each received a short biography of the resident we were paired with.

This was mine:

Female in her 90s. She is originally from Pound Cove. She was a home maker and a volunteer in her church for 40 years. Her faith and spirituality have always been extremely important to her and has remained so. Her favourite hymn is ‘The Old Rugged Cross’.

I really enjoyed creating this piece especially for her. It was made with many layers of acrylic paints, love, and prayers. 

first few layers

“Shine On” (9″ x 12″)

The painting was inspired by the idea of a stained glass window and the radiant love of God / The Universe that shines on all of us. That’s why I named it “Shine On” (9″ x 12″).

I’m really looking forward to our June 13th mini-exhibition of the artwork and kitchen party at the nursing home. That’s when I’ll get to meet my recipient and the other participants in this heart-warming project.

What a beautiful way to create connection in the community and transform a space. I’m honoured to be a part of this effort to add love, light and colour to this nursing home. Thanks Lorna! May your initiative inspire many others.

There are so many ways to be of service by matching our love and passions with the needs of the community. How do your favourite businesses give back? Are you involved in a volunteer project that warms your heart? Please share in the discussion below, knowing our stories will inspire others.