Maureen Miller’s creativity shines in art gallery display

When Maureen Miller retired, her children gave her beginner classes in pottery as a gift. While Maureen has always been appreciative of clay and sought out pottery on her travels, it didn’t occur to her to make her own pottery. “I spent years touching pottery. I just loved it but I never thought to do this myself. I found I had a good skill set for it, so when I started working with clay I knew what I wanted to do,” said Maureen.

She has pursued pottery as a hobby for the last 25 years. At one point she had a studio and kiln in her home. That changed when she moved to United’s Fish Creek. She now has access to the regular clay workshops, a wheel and a kiln.

Some of her work is on display in United’s gallery in the Fish Creek community. Maureen can be seen below holding the first clay work she ever made.

“Over the years, I would give my works to family and occasionally sell them at community events, but I never wanted to go into commercial production or sell in a gallery. I just wanted to produce on my own time, for me,” said Maureen.

Maureen’s husband Derek passed away last year, which impacted her urge to create. “My creative urge has changed as I get older. While I still work with clay, I’ve started exploring painting since moving here.

“The studio is wonderful, and the professional artists who work here are very encouraged to see how many residents attend the workshops. It’s inspiring to residents to see what they do with little or no experience.”

United provides the right atmosphere and opportunity for residents to express themselves. Our philosophy encourages aging in an engaged and creative way, which opens the doors to many new experiences and social connections. It has been proven that creative activity contributes to successful aging by giving older adults a sense of purpose, personal growth and interaction with others. We find that age is no barrier to creativity.

Photos and videos by Sherana Productions.

Speak with one of our active living advisors about life in a United community. They can arrange tours of our Garrison Green and Fish Creek communities. 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!