Elderly enjoy art class spoils by Mari-Lize
Artistically inclined Mari-Lize Searle teaches the elderly all about arts and craftsmanship.
“Art is therapeutic.”
These are the words of Mari-Lize Searle, a former primary school teacher, who now spends her days conducting art classes for the elderly.
Mari-Lize has dedicated her time to helping residents of Solheim Retirement Home, SAVF Sonkruin Housing Scheme for the Elderly and Elandsvallei Home for the Aged, to enjoy their mornings learning about art in a social setting.
“Twelve years ago I buried my father. I was completely heartbroken because we shared a special bond,” said Mari-Lize.
“He was insanely creative and I got my artistic character from him.
“When he passed away I knew I needed to do something which would help me deal with my loss, and I thought about giving back.”
As a school teacher at the time, Mari-Lize held special events for the elderly as a way of giving back. She continued doing what she could to brighten up their days, but she always knew there was more work to be done.
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“I have always had a soft spot for senior citizens because I often thought society was quick to forget about them,” she said.
With ample time on her hands following her resignation from a local school in December, she now has time to launch herself into community projects serving the elderly.
“I had been teaching for 25 years, and even at the height of my career, I desired a year in which I would take a sabbatical and explore other opportunities,” said Mari-Lize.
Without any sponsorship or partnerships, Mari-Lize provides all art supplies for her classes and leaves her fulfilled when her students stand proudly next to their creations.
“If we serve other people, we in turn will be served as well.
“It is a delight to teach them and spend time with them because they are keen to learn. They complement each other’s progress and help each other complete the day’s tasks,” she said.
“It brings me joy to see them happy.”
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Although she is just starting out, Mari-Lize has already received warm messages from the family members of the elderly she works with. They commend her for her work, and her group of students look forward to her classes.
“One of my students is alone in the country, with a child who lives in Ireland, and one day after our lesson I received a message from her child thanking me for spending time with her,” she said.
“Another man is illiterate but as soon as he held a brush, he made an exquisite painting. I was proud, art goes beyond boundaries.”
Mari-Lize encourages residents to get involved in community projects such as art classes, sharing skills or hosting events for the elderly, to remind them that they are still an important part of our society.
“Take time out to focus on other people, put together Mother’s Day or Father’s Day hampers for the elderly and you’ll witness the joy in their eyes. They appreciate the little we can give” she said.
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