The JCC Senior Art Class, back row: Muriel Miller, Pauline Helfand, Clarice Post, Tilly Prengler, Anita Holtzman, Sylvia Greenberg, Jane Guzman, Ilaya Potash, Rachel Frank, and Gilbert Cohen; Front row: Artie Allen and Veronique Jonas (Photo by Lisa Rothberg)
Most people in the neighborhood know that the Jewish Community Center offers an array of enriching classes for children, adults and seniors — from Richard Wharton’s intense cycling program to Dot Heller’s confidence-boosting ballroom dance class.
That doesn’t exclude the JCC’s Senior Art Class. I received this note in my inbox today from the group’s teacher, Veronique Jonas:
“I have been teaching this class for the past 8 years. It has been a wonderful and inspiring experience, for me the teacher and for students in this class. Some of the students are veteran painters, and some had never painted before coming to the class. Whether experienced or not, each one of our artists is gifted, creative and enthusiastic about their art. Their work is an inspiration to me and very often to each other. Each one rejoices in the accomplishments of the other. And each one’s work is different and individual, and yet a sense of camaraderie constantly exudes from this wonderful group of very young seniors! The two hours spent with them weekly, are a special gift that I will always, and for as long as I am able, cherish.” —Veronique Jonas
