Putting brush to canvas

Aged care resident Maureen Mayall is no stranger to holding art exhibitions, but her latest is the first she has held since moving into a facility on the Sunshine Coast.

Featuring 20 pieces of artwork, the exhibition showcased some of the paintings Ms Mayall has been working on while at McKenzie Buderim Views. “I feel as though today went really well with lovely entertainment in the background and members of the public coming into our home,” said Ms Mayall.

Now in her 90s, Ms Mayall has held many art exhibitions throughout her life. She tapped into her artistic talents to make ends meet when her husband became ill. “I would work all day, rush home at night, do the things that had to be done and then would paint until 12 o’clock at night to hold an exhibition to pay for the mortgage.”

These days, Ms Mayall donates most of her earnings to good causes. “The money I receive from sales is going to charity and the remainder to replenish my art supplies,” she said.

Ms Mayall’s paintings are inspired by her surroundings and reminiscences. “The inspiration for my artwork comes from what I see outside and memories I have, otherwise my brain just tells me what I should be doing,” she said. “Everything happens for me in the way of art, and I have been like it all my life – so I’m going to make the most of it now.”

With her first Buderim Views exhibition a success, Ms Mayall is excited to pick up her brush and begin creating for the next one. “I really want to continue to meet new people and show that you can still achieve whatever you set your mind to in aged care.”

Main image: Maureen Mayall

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