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30 | THE COLONY NEWS | JANUARY 2026 | David Gortner is our January Artist of the Month. He and his wife, Lennie, have lived in The Colony going on six years. David went to the Academy of Art in Chicago, studied watercolor and has been painting his entire life. He has won numerous awards, including Best of Show at an Art Faire in Silverton, Oregon. He enjoys painting trains, and he also paints seascapes and landscapes. He has participated in our watercolor class in the past, and usually he finished two paintings while we were accomplishing one. He's an inspiration to all of us. In addition to being an accomplished watercolor artist, David's other hobby is playing classics for violin and viola. He seeks out others who enjoy playing stringed instruments in the classics. If you are interested, please give him a call at 951-269-0572. He has exhibited his artwork in our Lobby many times, and we are very pleased to have him in our circle of Colony Artists. David also participates in our craft show each year. Thank you, David, for sharing your beautiful paintings and your special talent with your community. Artist of the Month By Sylvia Maxwell, 818-667-1766 Our first Watercolor class of 2026 will be on Thursday, Jan. 29, at 9 am in the Annex. Everyone is welcome; we have beginners to master painters. Our class is fun, and you take home something very special. Many who have tried watercolor for the first time are very pleased with their first effort. We ask that you please provide your own art materials, and if you have any questions, please give me a call at the above number. We hope you will add us to your list of activities for the new year. Happy painting! Are you a quilter — or interested in learning the skill? Wanda Raphael and I are starting a small, friendly quilting group dedicated to creating charity quilts for people in need, and we would love for you to join us. Whether you're experienced or a newbie, you'll be welcomed. We will meet twice a month to sew, share ideas, learn from one another, and put our creativity toward making quilts and items that bring warmth and comfort to others. If you enjoy quilting, friendship and giving back, this is a wonderful way to do all three. If you would like more details, email me at alonzo.karen@ gmail.com, or simply join us at our first meeting on Thursday, Jan. 15, at 10 am in the Annex. We would be thrilled to have you with us. Watercolor By Sylvia Maxwell, 818-667-1766 New Quilting Group By Karen Alonzo Do you enjoy taking photos? Join our new Photography Club! From beginners to seasoned professionals, this club is for you. This will be an opportunity to share and learn. We will have opportunities to take field trips, have guest speakers and education segments. Please call me at 951-660-5865. Photography Club By Greg Lucker