Hawkins ’ love for painting and creating art has also proven to be very beneficial because according to research , art therapy is a great way for senior adults to keep their minds active .
Her daughter in-law , Pam Hawkins , described Hawkins as a very talented artist . “ She can paint anything ,” said Pam Hawkins . “ Helen has always been a very talented artist . She sometimes takes old cans and cuts them into shapes to add a 3D effect to some of her paintings .”
Pam said her mother-in-law painted on mailboxes , clothing , pieces of wood or anything with a flat surface . “ Well , actually , it doesn ’ t even have to be flat ,” said Pam . “ She has painted ceramic 3D animals to look like they were real . Danny even told me that when he was in the 2nd grade , in Lois Lyon ’ s room , Helen went to school and drew Cinderella ’ s castle on the board and colored it in for the class .”
Pam also credited her mother-in-law for being a great seamstress . “ She used to make a lot of clothing . She made table runners out of fabric quilted yo-yos she had made , she made cushions for chairs , and one year she made new curtains for her house ,” said Hawkins . “ Not only can she paint , sew , and make crafts , she also line dances . She ’ s in very good health due to her staying active with all of these activities .”
When Hawkins isn ’ t painting or dancing , she loves spending time with family and friends . She has four children , Danny , Donna Davis , Randal , and Andy Hawkins . Helen has many grandchildren as well .
If you meet Hawkins for the first time , she might gift you a hand-made butterfly created with your own “ unique personality ” in mind .
“ She is just a complete joy to be around ,” said Potter . “ And her artwork to me is just another display of the beautiful person she is inside and out .”
Helen Hawkins has created a variety of art pieces over the years .
CULLMAN COUNTY SENIOR MAGAZINE WINTER 2021 | 17