Watercolor Fun Gatherings Give Adults Chance to Paint

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute's art classes bring community together in Santa Cruz

Apr. 1, 2026 at 10:25pm

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The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UC Santa Cruz has started a new Watercolor Interest Group, which meets weekly at the London Nelson Community Center. The classes, led by Joya Chatterjee, allow adults over 50 to explore watercolor painting in a relaxed, social environment. The group is a joint effort between OLLI and the City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation's Downtown Seniors program, with around 28 participants from each organization.

Why it matters

The Watercolor Interest Group provides an opportunity for OLLI members and local seniors to engage in a creative, social activity that promotes lifelong learning and community building. As an affiliate of UC Santa Cruz, OLLI also helps raise funds for scholarships to support adult students returning to complete their education.

The details

Chatterjee leads the class through exercises that encourage participants to 'paint together with simplicity, freedom from stress, with the joy of wonder and play, being a kid again.' The classes are open to all skill levels, from beginners to those with significant experience. Participants have praised the group for allowing them to rediscover their love of art and join a new community.

  • The Watercolor Interest Group classes meet weekly on Thursdays at the London Nelson Community Center.

The players

Joya Chatterjee

The instructor who leads the Watercolor Interest Group classes at the London Nelson Community Center.

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI)

A community of over 700 members at UC Santa Cruz who share a love of learning and intellectual exploration, offering a variety of classes and interest groups for adults over 50.

City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation's Downtown Seniors program

A partner organization that collaborates with OLLI on the Watercolor Interest Group classes held at the London Nelson Community Center.

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What they’re saying

“I joined this watercolor group on the invitation of a very good friend, and I love the idea of combining watercolor painting with being social and more community.”

— Lisa Ekstrom

“My life was getting to be too small for my comfort, so taking this watercolor get together forces me to go back to my love of art and to join a new community.”

— Nadine Frush

The takeaway

The Watercolor Interest Group at OLLI demonstrates how lifelong learning and creative expression can bring together older adults in a welcoming, community-driven environment. By partnering with local organizations, OLLI is able to expand access to these enriching activities and foster a sense of belonging for its members.