Last Thursday, members of Wakari Art Group held a birthday celebration for Hardey, with speeches, party food, birthday cakes spelling out "100" and hand-made gifts for the guest of honour.
The seed of the Wakari Art Group was sown when Hardey and fellow artist Ethena Kennedy began meeting at each other’s homes to paint together in 1962. They learnt from books and artists who they invited to tutor them.
As more artists joined them, the group outgrew their kitchens and moved to a nearby hall in Wakari, where it became the Wakari Art Group — a community of artists which has lasted more than 60 years.
At last week’s celebration, held in place of the group’s regular Thursday morning painting session at Wakari Scout Hall, Wakari Art Group president Doris Lancaster honoured the efforts of Hardey and Kennedy to set the group in motion.
"While Joan’s artistic life and influence reaches far beyond these walls, through her art and her distinguished service to the Otago Art Society, this morning tea is a moment to focus on the roots of our community," Lancaster said.
"Joan has said she might never have taken up painting without Ethena’s encouragement. In much the same way, many of us in this room might never have taken up art if Joan and Ethena hadn’t begun this journey together."
The values the founders brought to the group — sharing ideas, welcoming tutors, exhibiting work and prioritising friendship — continued today, she said.
Lancaster thanked Hardey for her enduring generosity and consistent support of the group that had helped to sustain it over the years.
Following Lancaster, long-standing Wakari Art Group members Judy Tait and Elizabeth Cooper shared memories of Hardey and highlighted her achievements with the Otago Art Society, of which she is a life member.
In honour of her long service to that organisation, an Otago Art Society gallery bears the name "Joan Hardey Gallery".
As the oldest OAS member, Hardey was given a prominent role at the recent opening of the 150th annual exhibition, alongside the youngest member Persephone Wells, 10.
The Wakari Art Group celebration was also an opportunity for group members to present Hardey with thoughtful 100th birthday presents including a hand-made wooden pen and card.
Memories of local and world events that occurred during her long life were also researched and assembled into a book, hand-bound by group member Penny Smith.
Hardey was delighted with the gifts and thoroughly enjoyed catching up with old friends and celebrating her milestone birthday with the Wakari Art Group.
"This is marvellous," she said.
Although she no longer paints, Hardey remains active in many areas of her life.
She is a keen gardener, swims regularly at the St Clair Hot Salt Water Pool, is a member of the Dunedin South Ladies Probus Club, still drives her car and keeps her mind limber.
