Veins of Bebe’s babes run with paint

When Robyn Hall turned 40 her midlife crisis was discovering she had art in the blood.

The Plimmerton resident is the third generation of artists in her family, who are putting on an exhibition in honour of Hall’s grandmother, Bebe Glading.

The exhibition, Bebe’s Babes, will feature art from Glading, three of her daughters and two granddaughters. The artistic abilities stretch even further to Hall’s daughter and a niece, but they will not be featured in the exhibition this time.

‘‘I think some people do just have a natural ability. It’s pretty much in our blood. People can certainly learn it but their are some people who can just do it,’’ Hall said.

‘‘When artistic ability is in your blood, as it is in our family, finding time for art and creativity brings a real sense of purpose and satisfaction to your life.’’

Hall said her grandmother did not start painting until she was a widow in her 60s.

While Glading never had an official exhibition, she would display her art in the front garden for anyone from the plumber to the postman to buy.

‘‘She was a bit of a character. I think she would be quite proud of us all.’’

Hall took art lessons in school but gave it up and it wasn’t until four years ago that she picked up the brush again.

‘‘ It wasn’t until my children became teenagers that I had time for a hobby. I thought it was time I got just got on with it and not leave it any longer,’’ she said.

‘‘I take one day off a week to try and paint. I’ve been really enjoying it.’’

The painting styles and subjects vary but include acrylic, oil, watercolour, and pencil.

Along with Hall and Glading, the exhibition features artwork from sisters Betty Baldwin, Janet Thomson, and Sally Simpson, as well as granddaughter Janice Stocks.

It will also be the first time the family has been together since Glading’s funeral 17 years ago.

‘‘You don’t get this opportunity very often. We might not get another chance,’’ Hall said.

Bebe’s Babes will be on at Pataka’s Bottle Creek Gallery from October 16 till November 9.