'Flowers galore' at Rochester Council on Aging art show

Aug 22, 2024

ROCHESTER — The Rochester Senior Center was full of paintings and patterns on the evening of Thursday, Aug. 22 for the Council on Aging’s annual art show.

The theme of this year’s show was “Garden Party,” evident by the leafy headpieces many in attendance wore.

Guests were tasked with voting for their favorite pieces of art and textiles to determine the winners of the “People’s Choice” awards.

Prosecco, appetizers and other refreshments were passed around the crowded room as spectators chatted amongst each other while observing all of the art.

Artists sat in a long line across the room with some of their work displayed.

One artist, Pat Halstead, showed a piece she stitched that featured 12 different types of colorful berries.

“It took a long time,” said Halstead, who said she “picked up” the hobby by herself. “I just got a kit and started.”

David and Millie Morrison, husband and wife, were two other artists at the show.

Millie said she started painting about 20 years ago, specializing in paintings of architecture and flowers.

David also enjoys painting flowers, especially lilies and lilacs, all in watercolor. He started painting seven years ago.

“I helped him a little,” said Millie. “He took a class and watched videos on Youtube to learn.”

David’s table featured many 5 by 7 inch paintings of flowers that he said are meant to be given to those battling sickness in hospitals, as a replacement for a bouquet.

Bunny Mogilnicki showed off her painting called “Flowers Galore,” which she said took her 12 hours to paint.

Mogilnicki uses pastels, and said she is “all about the color.”