"Elita and Gypsy," entered im the Mixed Media category, is an ink, pastel and watercolor by Emeline Fuller.

Featured artist program showcases local talent year-round

"Elita and Gypsy," entered in the Mixed Media category, is an ink, pastel and watercolor by Emeline Fuller.

“Elita and Gypsy,” entered in the Mixed Media category, is an ink, pastel and watercolor by Emeline Fuller.

The Art is Ageless competition and exhibit is a spring tradition here at Emporia Presbyterian Manor. But we celebrate artists in our region all year long.

Every month, our Featured Artist program gives one local artist a showcase for his or her work on our campus. The art remains on display all month. During that time, we also host a reception with the featured artist so that our residents and the local community can visit with them about their work. We also get to enjoy wonderful refreshments from our own dining services department!

“With so many talented individuals in the community, it’s truly an honor to showcase these artists’ talents,” said Marketing Director Crystal Stock. “It allows well-known artists who find their passion during various stages of life to proudly showcase their artwork in our gallery. And they enjoy collaborating with other talented individuals and meeting people who enjoy and appreciate their hard work.”

Crystal accepts referrals for the Featured Artist program and also seeks out well-known and established artists in the Emporia area, then arranges the exhibit. She is also starting to prepare for the annual Art is Ageless exhibit and competition in April.

"The Nature of Time," painting by Emporia State University student Sasha Conrade.

“The Nature of Time,” painting by Emporia State University student Sasha Conrade.

The Art is Ageless exhibit will feature works from local artists who are 65 and older. This program has been encouraging creativity in seniors for more than 35 years, and is sponsored by Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America (PMMA).

Last year, 18 artists entered here at the local level. Emporia resident Paul Johnston, a regular Art is Ageless participant, went on to win at the masterpiece level. That’s where winners from competitions at 18 PMMA communities in Kansas and Missouri vie for inclusion in the Art is Ageless calendar and notecards. The previous year, four artists from the Emporia competition won masterpiece honors.

“The Art is Ageless program has been a huge success in the Emporia community,” Crystal said.

For more information, contact Crystal Stock at 620-343-2613, ext. 2423, or send us a message.

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