Painting Dreams in Long-Term Care

Ernie Wattie dreams of painting, and then paints his dream.

Sitting in his room at Carveth Care Centre, a long-term care home in Gananoque where he has lived for the past four months, the friendly 79-year-old smiles while talking about his love of painting.

“I painted a picture for every member of my family for Christmas,” he says with pride on a cold winter day in early January 2025. “I learned to paint in high school. I’ve been doing it as a hobby for about 30 years, now.”

Proud of his work, Ernie points to the colourful pictures on his walls painted by him and one of his three daughters.

“I’ve done a lot of camping, backpacking and stuff,” says Ernie about the scenes of nature he likes to depict. “I have probably painted more than 50 pictures in my lifetime. I’m just getting ready to paint something else; I usually have an idea in the back of my mind.”

Pleased with Ernie’s hobby, Activation Director Shannon Buell notes, “It’s nice to see Ernie continue his passion for painting in long-term care. It’s a pleasure to watch him create these beautiful works of art.”

Originally from Cornwall, Ernie retired as an industrial electrician foreman. He has three children, five grandchildren and three great grandchildren. At Carveth Care Centre, he likes to spend his time reading, painting and participating in activities; he also enjoys photography.

Asked about his time at the home, Ernie replies quickly, “It’s A1. I like it here; I’m treated well.”

“I find painting very relaxing,” he explains about one of his favourite pastimes.

Carveth Care Centre encourages residents to find enjoyment and pleasure in life. To learn more about living or working here, please call 613-382-4752.