Felted creations are dotted around Enliven’s Kandahar Home; many are the work of rental unit resident Helga Ackerley.
Helga’s husband William moved into Kandahar Home just over a year ago, while Helga lives in one of the on-site rental units.
Helga has a passion for felting a spinning, and recently had some of her creations on display at the Aratoi art gallery as part of a wider exhibition.
Spinning and felting was initially Helga’s passion, but William got involved when he became curious about where Helga was going during the evenings.
“I would go to the meetings by myself and he’d say ‘where are you going?’ and I’d say ‘come with me!’” Helga says with a smile.
They are members of the Wairarapa Spinners and Weavers Guild and still attend regular meetings when they can.
Helga’s rental unit is adorned with her and William’s creations. Her pieces were recently returned from Aratoi after the exhibition wrapped up.
Helga spun a six-piece outfit out of silk, wool and cashmere with a remembrance theme. The garments include a hat made in the style of a helmet and a poppy spun out of silk. Beads woven into the silk spill down the petals to represent tears.
“It was my own design,” she says with pride.
Enliven’s Kandahar Home in Lansdowne, Masterton currently offers rest home and hospital care, as well as independent rental units, while nearby Kandahar Court offers secure dementia care.
Late last month Enliven broke ground on Kandahar Village, adjacent to Kandahar Home. The development will see up to 52 two-bedroom villas built. The first 12 villas are expected to be available for sale, under a Licence to Occupy arrangement later this year.
