Capturing a retirement community in paint

At 83, Anton has a knack for spotting beauty where others might only see building sites and heavy machinery. While some suggested screening the construction from residents' view, Anton had other ideas.

"I told them, 'No, no, don't do that.' I quite liked seeing what was happening and all this machinery that I'd never seen working before," he said.

Anton snapped photos whenever something caught his eye. The finished artwork brings together several of those moments into one.

"It reflects exactly what I saw when I looked through my window and how I felt. It's not precise, but it's free in my expression and it has movement."

Anton was the first resident to move into Arvida Lincoln Plains after spending a decade living in a retirement village in Auckland. The move south was inspired by family, with his son living nearby.

"I was used to living in an apartment in Auckland on the third floor. Now I'm in a villa with windows all around me. It's fantastic."

Originally from the Netherlands, Anton worked as a social worker before moving to New Zealand, where he became Warehouse and Computer Manager for T&T Childrenswear. Throughout his life, art has remained a constant passion.

"I've always liked drawing," he said. "I joined the Lincoln Art Group and I'm very keen on painting again."

Using watercolours and acrylics, Anton is already working on his fourth painting and says he enjoys the challenge and creativity. His advice for anyone thinking about picking up a paintbrush?

"Just give it a try. It's fun and you might discover a hidden talent."