Art enriches life – it gives depth to emotions, and makes our existence more colorful both literally and figuratively. At the Sunshine Place in Makati, art knows no boundaries and is for everyone – and this was evident when artworks from participants in an art class program were showcased in an exhibit.
The exhibit served as a “graduation” ceremony for 19 participants from the senior recreation center, all of whom amazed family members and friends with their remarkable oil pastel and acrylic paintings. These 19 “graduates” had no painting background to speak of, but the weekly art workshops facilitated by master painter and Art Association of the Philippines President Fidel Sarmiento drew out the artists in them.
Originally created for the senior members of the center, the workshop was opened this year to adults and young-adults as well. At the core of the workshops are mentoring sessions in hands-on techniques, basic strokes and mixing colors.
Luisita Guerrero, one of Sunshine Place’s newest members and an art exhibit participant, admitted she “didn’t know anything about painting; it was my husband who’s an artist.” But on the first day, “Fidel (Sarmiento) advised us to use an inspiration and we were able to produce an artwork after our first day of class,” she says, adding that she will continue participating in the art classes at the Sunshine Place where seniors like her can learn something new.
Sunshine Place is a senior recreation center under the Felicidad Tan Sy Foundation. It is a venue where adults can live actively as they engage in recreational classes and age-appropriate physical training programs. It is the venue where older members of society can be entertained, can socialize and reflect; a place of happiness and wellness for one’s mind, body and soul.
Aside from the art workshops, Sunshine Place offers a wide range of activities for its members and guests. There are iPad classes, Ikebana (Japanese art of flower arrangement) tutorials, monthly health talks, games and hobby clubs.
At Sunshine Place, there is always something new to learn: music classes and voice lessons; Jazz, Yeba and social ballroom dance classes; a 10-session course in Tai Chi; nutrition counseling and customized fitness training programs. One can also take time to reflect in the chapel that is open every day and holds a 12:15 p.m. mass every Friday.
Venue rentals are also offered with a roof deck complete with amenities ideal for private parties and corporate functions, plus a dance studio for dance practices or fitness training sessions. For the rest of 2015, Sunshine Place will also be holding Young at Art: Acrylic Lessons for 8-18 year-old participants, and basic Chinese painting classes.
For more information, visit the Sunshine Place at 56 Jupiter St., Bel-Air, Makati City or call (02) 856-4144 and (0917) 515-5656 or email [email protected].