At its regular painting morning on Thursday at Flagstaff Union Church, in Wakari, members gathered for morning tea and a small exhibition of recent paintings.
Special guest for the event was founding member Joan Hardy (96), who was one of a small group of local artists who began meeting at each others’ homes in 1962, to paint and share ideas.
"Others joined and then we got an art teacher to come and give us pointers — it became a real friendship thing," Mrs Hardy said.
"Eventually, we grew to the point where we had to move into the Wakari Community Centre, and finally to the church," she said.
The Wakari Art Group became so popular that it had 50 members and a waiting list for a time, with well-known artists coming in as tutors. Large exhibitions were held, and many members also joined the Otago Art Society.
"My art practise expanded from just painting to include etching, and so we started an etching group," Mrs Hardy said.
After taking on full-time work, Mrs Hardy eventually ceased being an active member of the Wakari Art Group, but has remained a staunch supporter over its many years.
Long-standing group member Robyn Armstrong was encouraged to join by her mother Helen Norton, who had been part of Wakari Art Group since 1972, and enjoyed the friendship and artistic endeavours of the group.
"It’s a nice place to come along, once a week, to catch up with people and work on your art," she said.
While the Wakari Art Group was somewhat smaller these days, its members remained as keen as ever, and were happy to welcome new members.
