Weekly art classes at Gulf Rise are unlocking hidden talents for a group of creative residents.

Each Wednesday, a handful of aspiring artists congregate in the Pavilion at Gulf Rise using pencils, paint and paper to bring their visions to life. The brainchild of village resident and accomplished painter June Lamont, the new classes have taken on a creative direction of their own.

“My original idea was to get a few people who already painted together, so we could practice in company – but no one who turned up had painted before, so I’ve somehow become an art teacher,” laughs June.

Fortunately, she loves it!

“It’s been great. Getting involved is the best way to meet people and I’m constantly amazed at how many residents have such interesting backgrounds.”

June teaches students about observation, light and shade, and colour and inspires them with ideas of what to paint, and how to paint it.

“I try to make it fun and not too serious. They love it, and really look forward to the classes. Finishing an artwork creates such a sense of achievement and painting also exercises the brain because you have to look at things in a different way to interpret them on paper.”

June has dabbled in art since childhood but didn’t develop a serious practice until in her forties. Since then she has successfully exhibited and sold her work and been a valued member of local painting groups and art centres.