Golden Designs offering art classes for western Jamaica seniors

SENIOR CITIZENS in western Jamaica, especially those who have a knack for art and have never explored and exposed their creative side, are invited to sign up for art classes to be held by Golden Designs, ‘Jamaica’s leading company for creative ageing experiences’.

It is an expansion of Golden Designs’ “highly successful Art Class for Seniors programme to Montego Bay, St James, bringing colour, connection, and culture to older adults in the Second City”. But, seniors from all over western Jamaica can go get their paintbrushes. The art classes are designed “to inspire, uplift, and create opportunities for self-expression”, Golden Designs said.

The brushstrokes start on Tuesday, July 8 at S Hotel Montego Bay, located at 7 Jimmy Cliff Boulevard (formerly Gloucester Avenue). The six-week programme will run every Tuesday until August 12 inside Club S, ‘a cultural haven within the hotel, accented with artistic tributes to Jamaican icons’. “It’s the right space to be creative,” said prospective participant, Joan Sergeant, who had previewed the setting.

S Hotel Montego Bay is one of the premier supporters and promoters of Jamaican art and culture, thus the exquisite displays of Jamaican art on the property that was recently recognised on Tripadvisor as the number-one all-inclusive resort in Jamaica for 2025. “This new collaboration with Golden Designs further cements its role as a champion of Jamaican artistry,” Golden Designs said.

From S Hotel Montego Bay’s perspective, Ann-Marie Goffe-Pryce, general manager, said, “We believe in nurturing Jamaica’s cultural identity at every stage of life. Being part of a programme that uplifts our seniors through artistic expression is both a privilege and a heartfelt investment in the soul of our nation.”

“This initiative speaks directly to our core values at S Hotel, celebrating Jamaican culture, empowering our people, and creating spaces where creativity can flourish. We are honoured to host a programme that brings joy, purpose, and legacy to the lives of our elders,” Goffe-Pryce also said.

“It’s creative ageing meets art tourism,” said Shelly-Ann Thompson, founder and managing director of Golden Designs. “Montego Bay is a vibrant cultural hub. It’s the tourism mecca. Tourists flock here for our culture and people. Much of that is rooted in the traditions, techniques, and bold colour stories of our older generation. This class is a continuation of that legacy, while unearthing and affirming their artistic gifts.”

The sessions include painting and drawing fundamentals, from still life to landscapes and portraits, and will be taught by graduates of the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts. They are structured to welcome beginners and proficient learners.

Thompson is particularly passionate about the programme’s multigenerational impact. She said, “Young and qualified artists engaging with the seniors fosters cross-generational creativity and respect. We’re also inviting young people to join, provided they bring along a senior. It’s a simple, but powerful way to promote intergenerational bonding and community.”

That call to action extends to the Jamaican diaspora as well. “Many Jamaicans abroad are wondering how they can care for their ageing loved ones back home. This is a perfect opportunity. Register your grandmother, your father, your elder friend. And if you’re visiting this summer, come to the class. Take them yourself,” Thompson said.

According to Golden Designs, the Art Class for Seniors programme has already seen great success in other parishes, with several participants going on to produce commissioned works, launch home-based businesses, gain recognition for their skills, some of which had been dormant for decades, and most importantly, rediscover joy and purpose.

For past participant, Rosalee Lewis, who attended previous classes in Kingston and Trelawny, the benefits are real and lasting. “Honestly, there are seniors who are painting, so this will provide structure for them to further develop their skills. I’m very happy it’s coming on this side. It’s a good outlet to explore that side of my abilities. I enjoyed the class; it was a new experience, and when I did the drawing, I felt at peace,” said Lewis.

Interested seniors (or their family members) may register or request more information by contacting Golden Designs at goldendesigns60@gmail.com.