Christmas Cards Express Talent of United’s Residents

Christmas traditions are back for many this year. The Christmas trees are up at both of United’s communities, the hallways and doors are decorated, and the annual Christmas cards – created by two of our talented residents – are being sent out.

Olive Hein, who has lived at United’s Fish Creek for four years, is honoured to have been asked to create one of two United Christmas cards.

“I like to draw, but I’ve never had an art lesson in my life,” said Olive. “When I came here, the creative facilitators introduced me to the art studio, and it turned out I had a natural talent for it!”

“The trees I usually paint are pines, but I saw a photo of aspens on the Internet and thought I’d give them a try. I think having the painting in the Christmas card is really nice!”

Jim Dolph is a resident of United’s Garrison Green whose work was also chosen for this year’s Christmas card. “I really liked the photo of an ermine that appeared on the cover of Conservation Education magazine, that is put out by the Alberta Hunter Education Instructors’ Association, which my son David works for. I painted it over a period of two days. Every painting is a challenge, and this one had a lot of different shades of white.

I was delighted when they chose my painting to be on the card, but I have to give credit to the team in the art studio. They helped with the different brushes and the choice of colours. It was a victory for the team!”

The two cards are being printed and will be distributed to residents and their families before Christmas.

Photos by United Active Living. Videos by Sherana Productions.

Don’t hesitate to talk with one of our active living advisors about life in a United community. They can arrange for a tour at your convenience. If you know a friend or family member who could benefit from living in a United community, send them a link to our website or blog, or arrange a future visit. We are happy to help! 

To learn more about life at United’s Fish Creek community, watch this short video.

Or, to find out more about life at United’s Garrison Green, watch this short video.