Former Chief Designer Reveals Artistic Talents to Fellow Care Home Residents

Alwyn Whitehead (96) from Woodthorpe Lodge care home revealed his artistic talents during a lesson in freehand drawing and painting by Cerys Williams, an artist at Loughborough University.

Having never showcased his flair for drawing before, Alwyn later revealed his history as a Chief Designer of locomotives at Gardner Diesel Engines.

Alwyn’s fellow residents were so impressed with his talent in freehand drawing that they suggested organising more artistic projects where Alwyn could display his work.

Alwyn said, ‘I’ve done drawing for train building. I’ve never done anything that I would consider to be ‘art’, but I enjoyed it very much and look forward to more design style art sessions.’

Alwyn’s son, Philip, later shared a drawing his father had created in 1958 whilst working for the National Gas Engine Company (see drawing attached).

Kate Day, the Home Manager at Woodthorpe Lodge, added, ‘At Woodthorpe Lodge we do all we can to tailor our activities to each resident, ensuring there’s always something for everyone to take part in.

‘It was wonderful to watch Alwyn so enthralled by the art lesson, he has a fantastic talent for drawing, and we can’t wait to see what he creates next.’

You can find out more about Woodthorpe Lodge’s art lessons by calling 01509 274 027 or emailing Woodthorpe.lodge@idealcarehomes.co.uk.

Woodthorpe Lodge is a residential and dementia care home, operated by Ideal Carehomes. With 66 en-suite bedrooms and luxurious social spaces, Woodthorpe Lodge is proud to be rated ‘Good’ by the Care Quality Commission.