RESIDENTS of a Crewe care home have recreated iconic portraits for a fundraising calendar.

The pensioners from Belong's care village posed as life models to celebrate National Day of Arts in Care Homes 2020.

They were captured on camera taking centre stage in some of the world's most renowned art works such as Baroque painter Carlo Dolci's 'St Rose of Lima'.

Other paintings the residents struck a pose for included works from Picasso, Van Gogh and Grant Wood, spanning from 15th century Northern Renaissance to 1930s Modernism.

Profits from the sale of the calendar will go towards purchasing a telescope for residents to enjoy.

Natalie Ravenscroft, experience coordinator at Belong, said: "Many of our residents love art, and keeping everyone active with creative projects is a key part of what we do at Belong. Due to the ongoing lockdown restrictions we wanted to do something extra special for Arts in Care Homes day this year."

Belong colleagues stepped outside their usual roles and became stylists, make-up artists and photographers, working with the residents and using recycled materials, props and face paints to bring their characters to life.

The photoshoot took eight hours over the course of two days.

Natalie added: "There was a real buzz around the village and everyone has been excited to see the final result. Our models really enjoyed getting dressed up, contributing their ideas and many reminisced about old times from childhood when they used to play dress up or were involved in school plays."

Jean, 85, was the model for one of the more ambitious photos, Picasso's 'Portrait of Dora Marr'.

"The make-up tickled my face and felt so relaxing. I can't remember having my face painted – it looks bright and joyful," she said.

Another resident, Gillian, 80, took on the role of Frida Kahlo and her distinct facial features.

The calendar will be available for sale from November 1. You can find out more about it by emailing [email protected]