Recently, Wesley Homes Foundation held its first Thanksgiving card contest for residents of Wesley Homes. Using watercolor, pen, ink, oil, photographs, needlework, etc., residents had to create and submit artistic representations of what Thanksgiving means to them. The creator of the winning design is – Annie Yoshimoto! Thanksgiving cards were created using Annie’s design and sent to donors in appreciation for their support this past year. Annie received a set of cards featuring her painting for her personal use. “It was quite a surprise to me,” said Annie. “I like to draw, but I don’t consider myself an artist.” Annie started her art hobby with calligraphy around five or six years ago. Her instructor told her to expand her mediums, so she began using watercolors and acrylics. Her winning painting is a mixture of watercolor and acrylic. Born and raised on the island of Kauai, HI, Annie was inspired by the tropical flowers of her childhood home. She worked professionally as a registered nurse and was fond of brightening the lives of those she cared for with kindness, compassion and with beautiful flowers. When she was in her mid-sixties, Annie began painting. Over the years, she has assembled an extensive collection of watercolors and pastels, and flowers have remained an integral part of her self-expression. “Ever since my mother moved to Wesley Homes Lea Hill last February she has traveled a long and happy trail,” said JoAnn Yoshimoto, Annie’s daughter. “She has made wonderful new friends, she acquired a sweet feline companion named Karma and now she has been honored as the featured artist on the Thanksgiving card!” Annie is a resident of the Wesley Homes Lea Hill campus. Submissions were judged by the Wesley Homes Foundation Board.
