Creativity shines at Later Life Hobby Exhibition and Paint with Numbers workshop
Friday 31 October 2025
As part of Positive Ageing Month, Carrickfergus Museum hosted Margaret’s Later Life Hobby Exhibition and a special Paint with Numbers Workshop on Saturday 25 October, celebrating creativity, wellbeing and lifelong learning.
The exhibition showcased a stunning collection of paintings by Margaret Cowie, whose passion for painting began in later life. Her inspiring story and vibrant artwork have captured the imagination of the community and encouraged others to explore new hobbies at any age.
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said: “I can’t say I’ll be displaying my masterpiece anytime soon, but I had a fantastic time taking part! It was great fun, and it really showed how art can bring people together. Margaret’s story shows that age is no barrier to learning something new or finding joy in a hobby. Events like this truly capture the spirt of Positive Ageing Month – promoting wellbeing, connection, and community across our Borough.”
Participants at the event enjoyed a relaxed and social morning, learning new skills and connecting through creativity – reinforcing the Positive Ageing Month message that it’s never too late to try something new.
Margaret Cowie added: “Painting with numbers helped me rediscover my confidence and creativity. It’s so relaxing and rewarding to watch something beautiful take shape, even if you’ve never painted before. I hope my exhibition and the workshop inspire others to pick up a brush – it’s amazing how much joy it can bring.”
In celebration of Margaret’s creativity, Paint with Numbers UK generously donated exclusive Carrickfergus Castle-themed painting kits for the workshop.
A spokesperson for Paint with Numbers UK, said: “We were deeply inspired by Margaret’s journey and her enthusiasm for art. When we heard her story, we wanted to do something special for her community. Donating Carrickfergus Castle-themed kits felt like the perfect way to celebrate her creativity.”
The event formed part of Mid and East Antrim Positive Ageing Month celebrations – a programme of activities and events throughout October aimed at promoting wellbeing, social connection and inclusion for older people.
To find out more about the events within the Mid and East Antrim area, or for more information, please contact the event organisers or Helen McClean, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s Age Friendly Co-ordinator, at E: age.friendly@midandeastantrim.gov.uk or T: 028 2826 2353.