“ A�y�n� �a� �eco�� a� �r�i��, a�� t�e�� ar� �� m�n� �e��fi�s i� �o�n� ��."
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Painting a New Picture of Retirement
A CENTRAL ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS ASSOCIATION( CARTA) DISTINGUISHED VOLUNTEER
Jeanette Van Hyfte
“ A�y�n� �a� �eco�� a� �r�i��, a�� t�e�� ar� �� m�n� �e��fi�s i� �o�n� ��."
Before retirement, Jeanette Van Hyfte would never have called herself an artist. She had barely touched a paintbrush in her life, having worked as a drama teacher for much of her career. Since retiring, she has reinvented herself. Not only has she learned how to paint using watercolours, oils, alcohol, inks, pastels, and more— she’ s also become a driving force promoting the arts in her home town of Lacombe and beyond.
“ It started in 2007, when I met a new group of friends who happened to be talented artists,” Jeanette says.“ They came up with the idea that we should start a non-profit art club, the Lacombe Art Guild, and I was honoured to be included. At the time, I couldn’ t even draw a convincing stick-man.”
As part of the guild, Jeanette began to develop real skills and fall in love with the creative practice. It wasn’ t long before she began to spread her newfound passion to others, volunteering to teach art workshops herself, casually and as part of health and wellness workshops.
“ Art helps a lot with stress, and I like to show people the relaxation part of doing art,” she says.“ Anyone can become an artist, and there are so many benefits in doing so. It builds confidence, helps you meet new people, and keeps your mind active.”
As part of a catering group called the Palette Pleasers, Jeanette helps raise money for the Lacombe Art Endowment Fund. Their events help promote local artists, and the money raised supports students through arts-focused scholarships.
“ As a senior, you need to develop new interests to keep you busy, and it feels great to help others while you’ re doing it,” she says.“ When you volunteer, you’ ll never be bored.”
SUMMER 2026 | 27