Seabrook Resident Dabs His Virtual Paintbrush And Takes Home First Place In Art Competition

TINTON FALLS, NJ - Seabrook resident Lou Rivera has been painting for years. He has immersed himself in various artistic media, including acrylic and watercolor, with the later being his favorite. He is, however, open to new ideas - new imaginative ways of expression.
This mindset has propelled him to a First Place finish in the category of Computer Imagery in the Monmouth County Office on Aging 2013 Monmouth County Senior Citizen Annual Art Show.
The show is taking place through the end of July at the Monmouth County Library in Manalapan.
What makes this crowning achievement for this senior so interesting is that it blends an age-old art form with technology - created by someone who has seen some of its recent evolution and is part of it.
"Winter's Day" is a colorful, vibrant and sharp computer generated image that Mr. Rivera created on his own iPad. Using a program, he drew the lines, added the color - using his creativity, he made a masterpiece that took home the blue ribbon.
"I've painted with watercolor and acrylic before and love to do so, but I also love computers," Mr. Rivera said. "This is when I decided to combine these two interests and develop a new way of creating art for myself."
Mr. Rivera said that his approach to art, whether it be acrylics, watercolors or an iPad, is the same. He conceptualizes what he wants to create and then his imagination takes him there.
"I get many of  my ideas from all over," Mr. Rivera said. "I'll get ideas from reading, watching TV, talking to people, nature - from all over."
Mr. Rivera probably gets some ideas from the other activities that he does to keep busy, which are plenty. In addition to his art, some of what he does that include volunteer work are walking dogs at the Monmouth County SPCA in Eatontown, and he served for six years on the Board of Management at the Community YMCA in Red Bank.
So while computer art may be the wave of the future, is it the favorite of Lou Rivera?
"Watercolor is still my favorite medium, because of the colors can be very delicate but have a string presence," Mr. Rivera said.
Eighteen artists won First Place Ribbons for various categories, including Mr. Rivera. These artists' work will go on to compete in the 47th Annual New Jersey Senior Citizens Art Show in East Windsor this October.
About Seabrook:  Seabrook is one of 16 continuing care retirement communities managed by Erickson Living. The scenic 98 acre campus is located in Tinton Falls, New Jersey and is home to more than 1,400 residents. Seabrook is the perfect greater Monmouth and Ocean County retirement destination offering a true sense of community, convenience beyond compare and a sensible financial structure. 

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