Central Valley, N.Y. High School Sophomore brings art techniques to Elant at Newburgh, N.Y.

Aug. 3, 2009 - PRLog -- Newburgh, NY – Proving once again that it is never too late to learn something new, residents at Elant at Newburgh are exploring beginner drawing techniques, thanks to a local high school student’s efforts.

Valley Central 10th-grader Abby Williams, 14, has volunteered a portion of her summer vacation to teach these fledgling artists how to draw using the “grid” method, best for easily transferring a printed image to paper using proper proportions.

“The grids were my favorite technique to learn in school, so I was hoping everyone here would enjoy it,” said Abby. “I love seeing how excited they get about how the pictures turn out.”

For some, like resident artist Ray Vanninwegan, the classes are similar to revisiting an old friend. For others it offers an opportunity to explore an unknown skill.

“I used to do a little drawing years ago, but it has been a very long time; I am enjoying this,” said Elant at Newburgh resident Helen Sadlo. “It offers me a sense of peace.”
Sadlo, who continued drawing in the grid technique long after her first class was over, is already on her second attempt and plans to continue her efforts.

Elant at Newburgh resident Joyce Lanier has never attempted to draw, but found that with Abby’s grid technique, she was able to create recognizable images on the first try.

“Abby is a wonderful teacher, but I don’t think I’ll ever be a real artist,” said Lanier with a chuckle. Still, she enjoys the time around Abby’s youthful energy and ideas. “She makes me feel younger. I enjoy the differences in our ideas.”

The strongest pieces from the art classes, along with others created by residents and those in the Elant at Newburgh Adult Day Health Care program, will be displayed in an art show on August 27 in the main dining room at 2 p.m. The event is open to the public.

Invited to the art show is 94-year-old Alba Gennarelli, who recently received local acclaim when she displayed her art at Newburgh City Hall. It is unknown whether she’ll be able to attend.

“Her accomplishments, we hope, will offer inspiration to others,” said Elant at Newburgh Activities Director Heidi Williams, who is Abby’s mother. “She offers a real example of motivation at any age, and that is so important to our residents.”

Williams is extending an open invitation to area high school students who wish to volunteer their time to share other artistic techniques with Elant at Newburgh residents. For more information, please call 845-564-1700.

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Elant, Inc., a community-based, not-for-profit organization, is a leading provider of services for older adults and chronically ill people of all ages. Elant is a comprehensive network of organizations that provides a full range of health and housing services to the Hudson Valley and beyond. On any given day, Elant serves more than 3,500 people through its network of communities, home care agencies, and services. Elant’s mission is to provide personalized, high-quality care and lifestyle options to persons of diverse generations, cultures, and needs.