By Olivia Condous
Senior residents in Melton are channeling their inner artists by getting involved in a craft competition, designed to encourage happiness, creativity and social connection.
Retirement accommodation provider Ingenia Gardens is holding a nationwide competition and the Melton village has received a huge response, with residents keen to give art a try and get crafty.
Residents have been tasked with creating a tea towel design, using a range of art mediums, with one winning artwork being chosen from each state to be made into tea towels for family, friends and residents.
Ingenia Gardens Melton community manager Nada Mecanovic said the contest had inspired residents to get out of their comfort zones and try something new.
“A few of my residents were reluctant at first due to some shaky hands, and I told them, ‘Look
at Picasso, look at all those famous abstract artists who draw outside of the lines.’
“Many of the residents then decided to give the Tea Towel Art Contest a go and they have just been so excited.”
The winning tea towel design will be chosen via a vote from residents and staff, with $100 cash prize for each winner and $2000 prize to go towards improving community facilities.
Ingenia Gardens Melton community manager Kim Gater said the residents were excited to be participating and working on their designs as a group after some initial reluctance.
“The residents just love all the social events and are really looking forward to doing this contest with each other,” Ms Gater said.
