Coming Together to Celebrate Creativity at Woodleigh Chase

Fairfax, VA - When Carolyn Walters moved to Woodleigh Chase, an Erickson Senior Living community in Fairfax, Va., she hoped to connect with others who shared her love of art and passion for painting.

"I enjoyed painting with other artists [in the past] and sought out a similar experience," says Carolyn. "I wanted the artistic stimulation, inspiration, and socialization of working with others."

As a seasoned watercolor and acrylic artist, she decided to start teaching neighbors who were interested in painting. "I felt watercolor painting would be easier for beginners than acrylic," she explains.

Every Thursday afternoon, Carolyn heads down to the community's creative arts studio, where she guides residents who want to try their hand at watercolor painting in a relaxed, judgment-free zone.

"Participants continue to come every week--and have encouraged their friends to join," says Carolyn. "They like having a new monthly theme and a small painting easily completed in an hour. I tell them to paint like Picasso, as he didn't follow any rules. Just have fun!"

Appetite for the arts

Carolyn, a former high school chemistry teacher, took up painting as a hobby at her local community center. Twenty years later, her paintings now decorate the walls of her residence at Woodleigh Chase.

"I have sold pieces at the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, [Va.,] a local gallery, and on Etsy. Now, I devote my time to painting and gifting away my creations," says Carolyn.

Carolyn is among many artists at Woodleigh Chase. Her neighbor Robin Thompson specializes in glasswork but also creates mosaic art, collages, pastel drawings, and watercolor paintings.

"I have been doing glasswork for about 15 years. However, I need access to large kilns and other machinery, so I do most of my glasswork at the Workhouse Arts Center," says Robin.

She finds inspiration in elements such as color, light, and the materials themselves.

"Over the past year, I decided to try mosaic work, which I can do here on campus. I embellish items such as bricks and flower pots. It's an activity that anyone can enjoy. I would love to teach others how to do it in the future," she says.

Collective creativity

Robin and Carolyn serve as cochairs of the Woodleigh Chase Creative Arts Group.

"Twice a week, we hold open studio times in the creative arts studio, enabling [Woodleigh Chase] artists to bring whatever they are working on," Robin explains.

A display case outside the studio showcases a rotating exhibit of residents' artwork.

In 2024, Robin and Carolyn organized an art show, inviting Woodleigh Chase residents to present and sell their creations. A wide variety of artwork was displayed and sold, including oil, acrylic, and watercolor paintings as well as ceramics, glasswork, photography, fiber art, knitting, crocheting, quilting, and quilling.

"There are incredibly talented people here. I sold several items, which was fantastic because it provided visibility for the artists and brought the community together for a fun event," says Robin.

Resident Karen Vijuk sold handmade bows and wreaths at the show and donated the money she earned to her grandson's high school marching band.

"I didn't realize how many talented artists live in this area until we all gathered in one place," Karen says. "What I do requires only a small amount of talent, but it is rewarding and keeps me busy. Making these is a fun and fulfilling activity for me."

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