Have you ever collaborated on a group project with friends or loved ones? If you have, then you know it's no easy task. Between scheduling, managing personalities, and a variety of unforeseen factors, collaboration can sometimes be tough. But the Parkchester Enhancement Program (PEP) seniors who created several beautiful large-canvas, acrylic paintings found a way to make a magical collaboration happen.

The Bronx Library Center's current "Thinking Big" exhibit showcases soothing artwork created by participants of PEP, a program funded by the New York State Department for the Aging. For this particular project, participants received a donation of canvas rolls, acrylic paint, and paintbrushes for their work.

Evelyn Ray led the group for two hours every Wednesday, and said "the collaborative painting saw everyone adding their own piece to it… I taught them how to add certain touches," which included rock formations, a flowing stream, clouds, and other freeform elements. Ray added that the artists "enjoy the camaraderies and the crazy ideas I bring to the table." 

This diverse group of senior artists worked on their paintings for a year, and are thrilled to know their work is featured at the Bronx Library Center. We look forward to hosting them again next year!

Featured artists: Alberto Bassat, Dorcas Campos, Melda Culmer, Maria Figueroa, Cheryl Jones, Percy Laster, Joseph Malave, Lourdes Pagan, Livia Pereira, Dammika Ranasinghe, Edna Rosado, and Emily Seda.