Residents at Cairn Housing Association’s Gilmour Court in Glenrothes held an art exhibition to showcase the work they produced during an eight week art course funded by the Cairn Community Fund.

The course was set up to improve wellbeing by encouraging creativity, stimulating new interests and fostering a sense of community.

The group have surprised themselves with the pieces they have created and are amazed at what they have been able to achieve. They have produced a vibrant collection of original pieces, from paintings and candle holders, to clay bowls and wall plaques.

Most amazing is the fact that the average age of the group is 83. Despite some of the group coping with health problems, the residents have embraced the challenges of crafting and have noticed the benefits of getting involved.

“This group should be an inspiration to people of any age”, said Jo Barrett, the course tutor.

“Their energy and willingness to try new things has surprised and impressed me and it has been a great pleasure to work with such an enthusiastic group of talented and sociable people.”

Tenant Nan Philips, aged 95, added: “It’s never too late to try something new.”

The course was funded through Cairn’s Community Fund and has been so popular with residents that they have extended the original grant, allowing the classes to carry on into autumn. The group plan to apply to Fife Council cultural community grants scheme in a bid to make these classes a permanent feature of life in Gilmour Court.

@CairnHA