Art That Rekindled Our Lives
— Starting to Paint in Our 70s
A heartwarming art exhibition recently held at Geomam Station Royal Park City Prugio Complex 1 in Incheon has drawn attention for showcasing the creativity and vitality of senior residents. Hosted at the Trinity Lounge, the exhibit featured original paintings by members of the complex’s senior club—many of whom picked up a paintbrush for the first time in their 70s and 80s.
The exhibition was organized by Vice President Park Young-hee (78), a former schoolteacher who moved from Busan to Incheon two years ago. Initially involved in calligraphy activities, Park proposed an art club after noticing some members had difficulties with fine motor tasks. Her suggestion to "try painting instead" sparked a new creative journey for the group.
Despite having no prior experience in art, the five senior participants—aged between 76 and 90—enthusiastically embraced the challenge. Park provided initial guidance by sketching outlines for the members to color in. Over time, the seniors grew confident enough to sketch and paint independently, with some even purchasing their own supplies.
"Just holding a paintbrush was a deeply emotional experience," said member Hwang Moon-sook (82), who joined the club after relocating from the U.S. “My family was moved by how passionate I’ve become.”
The exhibition, prepared over five months, featured ten curated works—two from each artist—displayed on easels provided by the residents’ association. The management office offered venue support and logistics. Park and her fellow artists were involved in every step of the process, from layout design to final presentation.
The response from visitors was overwhelmingly positive. The guestbook was filled with messages of encouragement and inquiries about joining future sessions. Several residents expressed interest in enrolling in the art club beginning this July. Even a visiting student wrote, “I now dream of becoming a painter in old age.”
“We’re truly moved that our small efforts could inspire others,” said Park. “At the same time, the growing attention adds a bit of pressure to keep doing well,” she added with a laugh.
The art club is already planning its next exhibition, aiming to create more advanced, original works on larger canvases—moving from reproductions to true creative expression. Their goal is to reach a level where they can paint from imagination, rather than relying on photo references.
This initiative highlights the growing importance of senior-led community engagement in residential spaces. Royal Park City offers a wide range of amenities including dining halls, fitness centers, swimming pools, and even on-site access to medical services through partnerships with local hospitals. Residents can conveniently reach all facilities via connected underground walkways regardless of weather conditions.
“This place is what many grandmothers would call heaven,” Park said. “It’s not a 100-point community—it's a 200-point one.”
DK ASIA Executive Director Cho Hyun-wook commented, “At DK ASIA, we are committed to fostering vibrant communities where culture, art, and daily life intertwine. This exhibition is a prime example of how resident-led initiatives can enrich everyday living and deepen connections among neighbors.”
He added, “We will continue to support cultural and community programs across all of our developments, ensuring our residents enjoy a luxurious, resort-style lifestyle within the heart of the city.”
