100-year-old artist keeps things creative at Oak Crest

Lyndal Dorland

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DeKALB - At 100 years of age, not much keeps Lyndal Dorland from pursuing her artistic passion for painting landscapes in watercolor and oil. Dorland is a resident of Oak Crest DeKalb Area Retirement Center, where she attends art class every Monday with other residents who also share her love of art. Since she was a young girl, she has always enjoyed being creative. Although the small country school she attended didn't teach art, Dorland remembers begging her teacher to let her decorate the blackboard. Dorland attended Illinois State University and went on to teach high school. It wasn't until after college that she returned to her passion for art and began to paint. She married Z. Harold Dorland, became a substitute teacher and together they raised two daughters. After retirement, the couple spent their winters in Florida, where she joined an art league at Fort Meyers taught by retired art teachers. On display at Oak Crest are three of her paintings which can be admired by residents and visitors. Dorland continues to share her talents with others and each year participates in the annual Resident Art Show. As a former teacher and lover of art, she encourages others to pursue their own passion. &#8220Following your dreams is especially true for children. My advice to parents and teachers is to let them work with what they like. We all have to find our own niche,” Dorland said. Oak Crest welcomes donations of art and whenever possible, incorporates it into the center's décor. Donations are tax-deductible and are appreciated. Contact Liz Hoppenworth at Oak Crest regarding donations by visiting the center at 2944 Greenwood Acres Drive, calling (815) 756-8461 or e-mailing lhoppenworth@oakcrestdekalb.org.