Artist Paints Rosy Picture of Pursuing Late-in-Life Dream

For as long as Rosemarie McCauley can remember she wanted to be an artist. The first half of life did not afford her the chance to pursue the dream, but at age 47, Rosemarie finally had the ways and means to go to college. Seven years later, Rosemarie earned a degree in studio art and art history from Clarke University and has been painting ever since.

Today, the 84-year-old artist has amassed a collection of 35 original watercolors, mostly vibrant floral paintings. Three of them will be on display Saturday, April 25 through June 6 as part of the Elk Grove Art Association's exhibit at The Elk Grove Village Public Library, 1001 Wellington Ave. The exhibit is free and open to the public during regular business hours.

Inspired by American women artists, Sara Steele, Birgit O'Connor and Georgia O'Keeffe, Rosemarie is a gifted watercolorist who paints flora. Rosemarie hails from Dubuque, Iowa, where the muse for many paintings was literally plucked from her garden-with pansy and poppy blooms among her favorites.

Last July Rosemarie moved to Alexian Village of Elk Grove, 975 Martha Street, Elk Grove Village, where she continues to paint daily despite the passage of time and eyesight troubles. "I don't know what I'd do if I didn't have my art; It's what keeps me going," said Rosemarie, whose apartment home features a large window for natural light and is equipped with her art table and supplies.

"I work rather slowly," Rosemarie says. "Some artists can whip a painting out in a couple of hours, but that's not me. I guess I'm a perfectionist." The attention to detail shows in her lovely paintings, many which have been sold over the years. "The idea of someone wanting to pay for my paintings is pretty exciting," said Rosemarie, adding that it would be nice to sell more at the library's exhibit to help offset the cost of art supplies.

However, the joy and satisfaction that she gets from painting is priceless. "When I do a super job, I'm really satisfied with myself, and I have a real sense of accomplishment," said Rosemarie, who is looking forward to the show and creating more beautiful watercolors.

Alexian Village, a Supportive Living Community for area seniors, provides an enriched and engaged lifestyle and supportive services for its older adult residents. Alexian Village features newer, private apartments with call systems, three meals a day, support services as needed, activities and outings and other social opportunities at an affordable monthly rate. For more information, please call 847-437-8070 or visit www.PathwaySL.com.

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