Arts & Entertainment
Millbrae Seniors Stay Active With Art
A weekly art class offered through Chadbourne Adult Activity Center.
It has become increasingly evident that an active lifestyle can keep the mind young. Millbrae seniors are sticking to this advice.
When it comes to creative hobbies, the Chadbourne Adult Activity Center offers something for everyone.
Every Monday you can find a group of seniors grinding and polishing semi-precious stones in the lapidary room, working on needlepoint or knitting projects, or painting using a variety of media.
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The program is organized by the San Mateo Adult School and is held at the New Vision United Methodist Church.
One of the more popular activities of the center is an art class led by Franco Franchini, attended by approximately 10 people each week. Franchini has instructed the group for five years.
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"I was President of Millbrae Arts Association at the time and someone asked me to step in to lead this group," he said. "I started out on a trial basis and they adopted me."
Attendees use watercolor, acrylics and oil, and paint using a wide range of styles.
"I never try to change the style they use, just enhance it," said Franchini. "The most important thing in learning art is to listen to criticism and to watch demonstrations."
"Several in the class are beginners, some are advanced and some are basically professionals," said Franchini. "Everyone is over 50 and it's a fun group."
Leona Marini joined the group a month ago and is working on her first painting.
"I recently retired and heard how wonderful Franco was as a teacher from my mother-in-law," Marini said. "He seemed warm and friendly and willing to teach someone just starting out."
At the other end of the spectrum, Marilynne Genis is a very advanced artist.
"You can get stifled painting at home, so it's nice to be with a group where you can throw ideas back and forth," said Genis.
"It's a fun thing, something I enjoy doing, and something the group looks forward to every Monday," said Franchini.
The classes are available each Monday from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. at the New Vision United Methodist Church, located at 450 Chadbourne Ave. Call 650-571-1297 for more information.
