It's Never Too Late To Be Artistic

Some say that age is only a number. One's creative talents can be awakened or expressed at any age.

Atria Windsor Woods, a family-style assisted living community that offers seniors the comforts of home, will present "An Evening of Arts" 4 to 6:30 p.m., Thursday.

The evening will include classical piano by Rob Kieser, high-end hors d'oeuvres and a wine tasting conducted by Strong Tower Vineyard & Winery in the Spring Hill area.

The occasion also will feature the artwork of two Atria community residents. The first resident, Kosma Billings, started drawing as soon as she could hold a pencil. At 10, she attended art school and by 16, she was enrolled at Florence Kane School of Art, in New York City, where she began painting in oils.

"I was born with the desire to paint and draw," Billings said. Her works have been shown in New Jersey, New Hampshire as well as locally. Billings was invited to exhibit her artwork at the National Episcopal Convention in Cincinnati.

Another Atria resident, Hilda Hagerman, also will exhibit her artwork. Hagerman started painting at 60.

The women work in several mediums but specialize in acrylics. Their exhibit will feature eight original creations, as well as poetry by Billings.

Free and open to the public, the open house will serve as a meet-and-greet for the resident artists. Joining the duo in displaying artwork will be local artist, Michelle Collins, artist Susan Holland and photographer Paula Showen.

"This event will reinforce what we at Atria work toward by engaging the residents in educational classes," said Jennifer Astuto, executive director of the Atria.

Residents are able to take part in a monthly art appreciation class.

The event will take place in the main lobby of Atria Windsor Woods, at 13707 Dallas Drive, Hudson. For information, call Astuto at (727) 869-3533.