From Pipe Cleaners to Papier Mâché: Rita van Alkemade’s Creative Journey

Rita van Alkemade’s life is a remarkable journey of creativity, service and community. From her childhood in the Bronx to her current home at Cornwall Manor, Rita has always embraced opportunities to learn, give back and inspire others.

Married at 19, Rita began volunteering early in life. While raising three young children in New Jersey, she visited hospital patients who had no family. One of her most vivid memories is of Olen Fair, a long-distance truck driver who initially resisted her visits. Over time, their conversations blossomed into a friendship—a tribute to Rita’s warmth and persistence.

Her love of art was evident from childhood, when her father brought home pipe cleaners that she transformed into whimsical figures. That creative spark grew into a lifelong passion. Rita earned her Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art (magna cum laude) from the University of Wisconsin–Parkside and later pursued independent study in sculpture at the Ringling College of Art and Design. She stayed on at Ringling as Assistant Director of the Art Gallery, immersing herself in the vibrant art world. Summers found her in the Blue Ridge Mountains, facilitating workshops and refining her craft. Every home she lived in featured a dedicated studio—a reflection of her commitment to creativity.

Her award-winning work spans clay, wood, metal, and stone, and today she focuses on sculptural papier mâché. Her current series, Bird Women, imagines women who soar with limitless minds, blending the essence of real birds with the female form. Rita draws inspiration from the indigenous cultures and natural beauty of Africa, South America and Mexico, infusing her art with depth and meaning.

Rita’s volunteerism has been just as impactful. Through the American Association of University Women (AAUW) in Arizona and Florida, she raised scholarship funds for women and helped create a professional clothing closet for job seekers. When her mother moved into a continuing care retirement community in Arizona, Rita taught art classes for residents in independent and assisted living—sharing her talents and fostering creativity among older adults.

In November 2021, Rita and her husband Tim moved to Cornwall Manor, drawn by its welcoming atmosphere and the perfect home on Gatehouse Lane. Before even moving in, Rita joined the Arts Council, helping launch Artful Connections, a multi-faceted arts program taught by professional artists. Now planning for the fifth successful season, the program enriches residents’ lives through creativity and connection.

Within her first year, Rita chaired the Cornwall Manor Society’s Blooms & More Festival, joined the Novel-Teas book group, American Mah-Jong and the Ladies Luncheon, and today serves as President of the Cornwall Manor Society (after serving one-year as Vice President). She also contributed to the Society’s 75th Anniversary Planning Committee and the Luminary Project. Rita and Tim enjoy the Cornwall Manor Concert Series, trips to the Fulton Theatre, and time with their Cavapoo, Jasper, at the dog park.

Rita’s accomplishments at Cornwall Manor include co-hosting the art exhibit Two Artists: Two Journeys with resident Randy Leibowitz Dean in the Paymasters Building during fall 2025. Both women showcased and sold their art, donating a percentage of proceeds to benefit benevolent care. Building on that success, Rita and Randy are now spearheading drawing and sketching classes in an open studio setting, creating a relaxed environment where residents can explore their creativity.

Looking ahead, Rita is excited to expand Cornwall Manor Society functions to the Clubhouse and collaborate more closely with the Residents Association. For Rita, volunteering is more than service—it’s a way to connect. “The friends we have made at Cornwall Manor will be with us for the rest of our life’s journey,” she says, grateful to establish those relationships and build a strong network before they need it. “It’s a great way to meet people, and we’re so happy to be here. We want to give back while we can.”

From pipe cleaners to papier mâché, from hospital visits to community leadership, Rita’s story is one of passion and purpose. Cornwall Manor is fortunate to have her creativity, energy and heart shaping its vibrant community.