Picking up the paint brush was cathartic for aged care resident and artist Graham King, who had not painted in years.
After Regis Port Stephens Aged Care Home went into lockdown due to a COVID-19 resurgence at the start of 2022, 91-year-old Mr King saw an opportunity to get back into his passion.
Regis Port Stephens General Manager, Jill de la Lande, purchased a set of canvases, brushes, and paints for him, and Mr King has since produced over 20 artworks and does not intend to stop any time soon.
“He is just so proud of his work,” Ms de la Lande said.
“He and his daughter catalogued his paintings recently and found he has more than 152 artworks.”
Graham’s work has also inspired others in the facility to explore their creativity with the successful development of an art room.
The space provides residents with an outlet to express themselves artistically and without judgement, and Mr King has been able to help some of his fellow residents out with their painting skills.
“Regis has been very helpful providing this room for me and other residents,” Mr King said.
“I like to think that we should do something in life to help, to extend our lives, to make it more
interesting at our age. It does help.”
Recently, Graham gifted two of his extraordinary artworks to Linda Mellors, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Regis Aged Care.
“Everyone’s got a gift and they should be using it. Mine is painting. Paint and enjoy yourself!” said Mr King.
