On a warm summer afternoon, more than a hundred guests gathered at Pines Village and The Village Gallery for the Hazel Hannell Artful Aging reception, an event as colorful and inviting as Hannell’s own art. Friends, neighbors, artists, and history lovers filled the gallery, mingling among the vibrant works while enjoying the kind of warm hospitality that makes our community so special.
Photograph of Hazel Hannell by Margaret L. Willis
The evening’s highlight was a captivating talk by Serena Ard, whose deep connection to the history of the Hannells shone through in every word. She wove together stories of Hazel’s artistic journey, her commitment to conservation, and the creative partnership she shared with her husband, Vin. Serena’s storytelling offered guests a deeper appreciation for the pieces on display, transforming them from beautiful works of art into living records of a remarkable life and era.
Guests enjoyed an impressive grazing table prepared by Frank, our Executive Chef, overflowing with meats, cheeses, fresh fruits, crackers, dips, and colorful garnishes — a feast as thoughtfully arranged as the art on the walls. Laughter and conversation filled the air as attendees moved from table to table, taking in the details of the exhibit while reconnecting with friends old and new.
If you missed the reception, there’s still time to experience Hazel Hannell’s work in person. The exhibit will remain on display at The Village Gallery through October 2, 2025. Whether you’re a longtime admirer or discovering her art for the first time, we invite you to step into her world of bold colors, nature-inspired themes, and community spirit.
This program is part of the Vin & Hazel Hannell: Creativity, Community, Conservation series, presented in partnership with Art Barn School of Art, Chesterton Art Center, Indiana Dunes, Porter County Museum, and Westchester Township History Museum (Westchester Public Library).
📷: Albert Photographic
Pines Village’s Connection to Hazel Hannell
At Pines Village, our mission is to celebrate life by enriching the lives of older adults. Everything we do is guided by the residents. Our spaces reflect their lives, values, and sense of home. That’s why our halls showcase fine art by regional artists like Jan Sullivan, Margaret Burroughs, Harriet Rex Smith, Russell Nelson, and Hazel and Vaino (Vin) Hannell.
Our connection to Hazel Hannell began with our first administrator, Margaret M. Rivers, a devoted supporter of the arts who believed creativity could enrich everyday life. Over time, several of Hazel’s paintings made their way into our community. Some were passed down by residents and displayed throughout the building. These pieces became gathering points where residents stopped to admire and share stories.
Some had known Hazel personally. Some still treasured the small clay animals she made for children and the mini mugs she’d make as gifts for newborns. Others remembered her digging red clay from her yard to craft pottery. Her spirited life and creative energy left a lasting impression.
Former CEO Laurie Mullet’s vision helped grow Pines Village’s art collection and deepen our ties to the local arts community. Under her leadership, we established the most extensive public collection of Hazel Hannell’s work. Today, it serves as a daily reminder of the creativity and purpose that can flourish at any age.
We invite you to join us in celebrating Hazel’s life, her legacy, and the enduring power of artful aging.
