All artwork is priceless, so paint for the enjoyment – The Troy Messenger

Mention the name “Mary Page” and it will ring a bell in the ears of countless senior adults who are or have been members of the Colley Senior Complex on Elm Street in Troy.

For more than 25 years, Mary Page has taught art at the complex and continues to share her love of and talent for art with those who walk into “her” studio.

“I didn’t ever think I would stay this long,” Page said with smile. “And, I keep thinking that, if I stop … well, what would I do?

“I have always enjoyed painting, especially things that are meaningful to me and to others in my life. That’s what I tell my students. Paint for the enjoyment of it and for the enjoyment that it brings to others.”

Just as children’s artwork is, with great pride, “hung” on the refrigerator door, so does mama’s framed painting of a sunflower or grandpa’s painting hanging on the wall.

“Many of my students’ paintings are treasures to their family members and that makes them priceless,” Page said. “In reality, neither me nor many of my students will have a solo art gallery show, but nothing could compare with having our personal artwork hung on our children’s wall.”

Page said the complex art studio offers more than paint and a brush.

“Here, at the studio, we are all friends,” Page said. “We care about each other and pray for each other. Art brings us together; love keeps us together.”

Mary Page’s art studio is open free of charge to all members of the College Senior Complex. Membership and fellowship are free.

“Everyone is welcome and we always have easels for more,” Page said.