Kathleen McQuillan’s “A Lifetime of Experiences” at The Village Gallery June 8 - July 31, 2025
At Pines Village Retirement Communities, we believe that life is a journey meant to be celebrated at every stage — and that celebration becomes even richer when we have passions to pursue, people to connect with, and opportunities to continue growing.
Our residents continually inspire us with the many ways they share their talents, dreams, and life stories — none more so than artist and resident, Kathleen McQuillan.
We are thrilled to announce The Village Gallery’s newest exhibit, A Lifetime of Experiences, featuring oil paintings by Kathleen McQuillan, will open with a reception on Sunday, June 8, at 2 p.m. Kathleen’s work reminds us that creativity knows no age limits, and that each chapter of life brings new opportunities for reflection, beauty, and discovery. The exhibit will be open to the public for viewing through July 31, 2025.
About the Artist
A longtime resident of Valparaiso, Kathleen’s journey in art began in high school and flourished through her education at St. Mary’s College, Notre Dame. Her work has been widely admired, including her senior series on the images of The Trinity, exhibited at the Vatican Pavilion at the New York World’s Fair in 1964.
Throughout the years, Kathleen raised five children, welcomed 14 grandchildren, and continued her creative pursuits — from designing church banners to painting landscapes that reflect her deep appreciation for the world’s beauty.
Now, as a member of the Pines Village community, Kathleen embraces a full and creative life: gardening, reading, and socializing. She has even taken painting classes offered right here at Pines Village to keep her creative juices flowing— a wonderful example of lifelong learning and passion.
Her exhibit, A Lifetime of Experiences, is a powerful reminder that each day holds new inspiration and that creativity can grow and flourish no matter where you are in life.
Why Community and Creativity Matter
Research shows that staying socially, mentally, and creatively engaged is vital for healthy aging. A report from the National Institute on Aging found that seniors who participate in meaningful activities report better emotional well-being and live longer, healthier lives. Additionally, engaging in the arts has been linked to improved memory, lower rates of cognitive decline, and a greater sense of purpose.
At Pines Village, we offer a vibrant community where residents can connect with friends, attend enriching activities, explore their passions, and support each other’s creative and personal growth. Whether it’s through painting, music, gardening, volunteering, or simply sharing a meal with a neighbor, these moments of connection make every day fuller and more joyful.
Kathleen’s story—and her exhibit—are beautiful examples of how lifelong creativity, a supportive community, and an active spirit can make life meaningful at every age.
