Los Angeles Jewish Home

The annual Joyce Eisenberg-Keefer Medical Center (JEKMC) art show was held on March 14, featuring beautiful paintings, hand-painted porcelain and ceramics, photography, and jewelry – all created by residents! “The art show is a great opportunity to show how talented our residents are,” says Francine Finkelstein, director of therapeutic activities. Many of the works were created by the residents here at the Home in the various art classes that are offered, such as painting with watercolors, ceramics, beading and arts and crafts.

For many of the Home’s residents, personal time to pursue a hobby was in short supply in their early adult lives – working and caring for family and home were the priorities. Discovering an artistic talent later in life comes as a pleasant surprise! New ceramics class devotee Betty Blum explains, “I worked, I took care of my kids, I never had the opportunity to try this…and I love it!”

Two artists represented at the show - Joyce Halper and Ann Horn - realized their talents when they were younger and are currently in the Friday afternoon watercolors class. When she was 49, Joyce joined her cousin at an art class, and the rest is history. She signed up for lessons at Brentwood Art Center and is still painting to this day. Currently working with watercolors, Joyce says, “I love it! Painting relaxes me.”

In addition to watercolors, Ann also counts painting on porcelain in her artistic repertoire. “It’s very delicate and special,” she recalls. “It had to be fired twice in the kiln.” Two of Ann’s pieces were on display at the show, with many more with family in New York.

The residents of the Jewish Home – where the average age is 90 – have rich histories. The art show was a delightful way to be reminded of their wealth of talent. To view photos, please click here.

Labels: Ann Horn, Art Show, Arts and Crafts, Betty Blum, jewelry, Joyce Eisenberg-Keefer Medical Center, Joyce Halper, painting, Seniors