Piper Shores Summer Solstice Resident Art Show

Featured artist Karen Walker inspired by water for her work and her life

Piper Shores will host its 13th Annual Summer Solstice Resident Art Show on Saturday, June 20, from 1 to 4 p.m. in the Great Room. More than 25 residents will show their original artwork, and participating residents will be on hand to discuss the inspiration behind their art. The show is free and open to the public.

The featured artwork this year is an oil painting titled Driftwood by Karen Walker, a retired civil servant and resident at Piper Shores. Dr. Walker grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, but as a specialist in toxicology, environmental science, and cellular genetics, her life has led her to the Caribbean, Seattle, New Zealand, Hawaii, San Diego, and Maryland. 

“I started painting at age 7 and painted right through high school,” recalls Walker. “But I didn’t really start again until after I finished graduate school.” Over the course of her life, Walker says she would find time to paint, and the sea was often her favorite subject.

“In Ancient Greece there was this concept of the four elements – water, air, earth and fire,” explains Walker. “I have found that I am very much a water person.” In fact, Walker says she moved to Piper Shores in large part for the exquisite ocean views and proximity to the water.

“The resident art show is one of the highlights of our year,” said Andrea Killiard, Piper Shores Marketing and Life Enrichment Director. “Art is a central part of the lives of so many of our residents, and some of their work rivals what is seen at several of Maine’s top art galleries. The annual art show provides an opportunity for a very talented group of residents to share their work with the larger community,” she said.

Killiard notes that the event also showcases the importance of activities like painting, drawing, and sculpting as a way to keep seniors active and healthy. “For some people the creative journey is a lifelong passion and for others it is an entirely newfound endeavor and love, but artistic activity can be a vehicle for increased physical, mental and emotional health for anyone,” said Killiard.

The Art Show is an opportunity to experience the Piper Shores community in a casual atmosphere. Visitors can walk around the property, talk to residents, and experience the essence of Piper Shores. During the afternoon of the show participating residents will be on hand to discuss the inspiration behind their art. Piper Shores is located at 15 Piper Shores Road in Scarborough. For directions or more information, please call 207-883-8700.