The Tim Williams Project at Quail Summit is bringing together the generations to find the beauty and character of the human being.    Tim Williams, an art teacher at Honeoye Central School District, has long dreamed of finding an opportunity for his students to make a difference in the community and truly connect them in a meaningful way with older adults.  A new collaboration with the residents of Quail Summit in Canandaigua is making that dream come true.

 The project started earlier this month when Williams invited six students to meet with older adults whose “beauty and character” they would capture in painted portraits.  News quickly spread among students and ultimately 15 student artists as well as a student documentary filmmaker, and a student photographer joined the project.  As the first step, the students came to Quail Summit and spent two hours talking and learning about the older adults’ lives and interests.  Connections were made that have inspired the students who are now diligently coming into school early and at their lunch break to work on portraits.    

 Gloria Harrington Executive Director at Quail Summit said “I have to say that this project has exceeded my expectations on every level. Quail Summit is thrilled to be part of this endeavor and hope that this intergenerational project will be replicated in other schools and communities.  We are so impressed talent of these artists and the passion of their teacher.”

The students will unveil the completed portraits to the “models,” and their friends and family at an art exhibit on April 27 at 6:30 pm at Quail Summit at 5102 Parrish Street Extension, Canandaigua, NY 14424.  There will also be a screening of the film and a photo exhibit. The celebration is free and open to the community.