Top year for Arts Trail

Abigail Spink

Alzheimers Marlborough wrapped up its fifth annual Arts Trail on Sunday, which volunteer organiser Clare Kilty describes as its most successful yet.

With record ticket sales of 220, over 750 raffle tickets sold and more than $10,000 raised, Claire says the trail is a “really key” fundraiser for the society, which offers respite care, community outreach and carer support groups.

Public response was overly supportive, with “a wonderful buzz” around the featured artists, she says.

98-year-old watercolourist Roy Boston was one of the 55 artists displaying their work. Painting since retirement 33 years ago, Roy was keen to be part of the Arts Trail for the work the society does supporting his wife and friends with Alzheimer’s.

Explaining that his wife Mary attends a Friday respite group designed to give carers a break, Roy says the support “is very appreciated” and he’s “very pleased” with the work of Alzheimers Marlborough.

For Pete James, another watercolourist of 25 years, the Arts Trail was an opportunity to support a worthy cause that is helping with a widespread issue:

“Who doesn't know someone with those challenges? It’s a tough gig, you know, and supporting them is really important” he says.

For Clare, one of the Society’s most important roles is working with families so people living with dementia can remain in their own homes for as long as possible – something key fundraisers such as the Arts Trail help make possible.