Paintings, drawings, and mixed media pieces lined the walls of 2401 White Plains Rd. on May 1 as local seniors proudly showcased their work at a special art exhibit hosted by Centerlight Healthcare’s PACE program.
The inaugural event brought together members from all 11 of the nonprofit’s sites across New York City, highlighting the diverse talent and artistic expression that has flourished through Centerlight’s long-running creative programming. Guests were treated to live music and refreshments as they explored the collection, which celebrated both the individuality and shared experiences of the program’s participants.
Although the organization has offered arts programming since its founding, this marks the first time the work has been featured in a public exhibit.
“This is the first time we’ve done an art exhibition for our participants,” said Tara Buonocore-Rut, Centerlight’s president and CEO. “If you look around, there are some incredible works of art here that our participants are really proud of, and PACE is a place where they can continue their talents. We wanted to be able to give back to them and exhibit their works, and bring their family and celebrate all that they’ve accomplished while they’re here.”
The room was filled with exquisite paintings, drawings, knitwork, and more. Many artists were present as visitors walked around to admire the completed projects and read the stories and inspiration behind each piece.
Many participants have been writers or painters their entire lives, while others just started getting in touch with their creative side as they discovered the center. PACE’s art classes are part of the organization’s therapeutic recreation program, which allows seniors to discover hidden talents, reconnect with hobbies, learn something new, and share new experiences with other members there.
Michelle Van Etten, the center’s therapeutic recreation specialist overseeing all locations, expressed heartfelt gratitude during the event for the support she’s received from the PACE community—and for the opportunity to witness members grow and express themselves through art.
“This art program has not only allowed our participants to explore their creative skills and abilities, but it’s also allowed other recreation therapists to discover some of their own,” said Van Etten. “It’s wonderful to see everyone working so closely with one another, and I am in complete awe with the collection of artwork that we see here tonight.”
The presentation also gave some of the artists present a chance to express their thoughts on having an outlet to create and what it meant for them to have a community to express themselves and socialize with others.
One artist, Betty J. Murray, a published author of children’s books, initially went to the center for her doctor appointments and was hesitant to get involved in other activities. When a friend who also went to the center, Sabrina Brown, who has since passed away, introduced her to the creative activities Van Etten taught, it was a truly transformative experience. Since then, Murray has won awards for her artwork from former President Biden and Kamala Harris, and has found a community with others in the group.
“Michelle Van Etten and Shelley are my two Centerlife daughters,” said Murray. “I’ve been blessed by these two young women and the staff of Centerlife, and I am so blessed and grateful for this team. The people here are my sisters and brothers, they’re beautiful people and they make me feel beautiful, and it’s just wonderful being here.”
To learn more about the Centerlife Pace Healthcare services and programs, go to their website.
