Getting to Know: Roxanne Lorch
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m a native New Yorker who lived in Manhattan for 50 years before moving in 2009 to greater Raleigh, NC with my partner Ed (later my husband). I had a successful design and business career in the graphics and Architectural Interiors Industries. With a BFA from Boston University College of Fine Arts and graduate studies in Manhattan, my professional work included hospitality, corporate, museum and department store projects. It was an exciting time to be part of this creative life, though difficult as a young woman breaking into a men’s field. In 2001 at 64, when aging out of career possibilities, moving on to Fine Arts seemed appealing.
I studied at the Art Students’ League of NY while also becoming a Professional Organizer, segueing from my design past. Since everyone in Manhattan lives in places that are too small, organizing their space was a perfect side hustle. Art-wise, I started entering my paintings in juried shows since 2007 in Manhattan and. North Carolina, winning several awards along the way. I paint in several media including pastel portraits of individuals, animals, figurative pieces, acrylics, and plein-air landscapes in pen, ink, and watercolor. My art studio is in a newly reconverted tobacco (Lucky Strike) warehouse in Downtown Durham with 30 other artists. Other than painting outdoors, this is where I paint and sell my art. I continue to exhibit locally in several shows per year.
I play pickleball, work out, am actively involved in several social and cultural groups, see friends, and spend time with my delightful Siamese cat, Ariel. I still travel and am fascinated exploring Native American Indian ruins.
What brought you to TTN Coast to Coast?
My design career ended, my mom died, and my good friend Charlotte Frank co -founded The Transition Network with Christine Millen, all within weeks. I joined immediately, becoming one of the original members. TTN offered a support system which guided me forward both then and thru the years. Twenty-two years later, I’m still a member and continue to meet with my original NY peer group online.
I met Darla Hastings at TTN’s 20th anniversary celebration and said the organization was no longer meeting the needs of women 70 and 80. Darla said she would address this, and would I be willing to help. So, when the Coast-to-Coast Chapter was formed, I became a steering committee member due to my long history with TTN. I’ve stayed active, giving a podcast on women over 70, several webinars, and participating in an online panel of women over 80.
What transition are you anticipating, going through or contemplating?
Now 86 years of age, I’ve investigated moving from my home in an over 55 community to a senior facility. However, I'm still so active that I‘ve put that on hold. I still drive at night, attend many events, and have my art studio in Durham. Also, downsizing three generations of carefully curated possessions, when younger family members are not interested, is a challenge that needs to be met. Living solo, I’ve put in place some end-of-life steps and final arrangements ahead of time. With loved ones living 3000 miles away, these stressors won’t become issues, should I unexpectedly leave this planet.
What have you learned from all the transitions that you’ve experienced in life so far?
I’m at a happy place and am content (most of the time). I’ve had serious medical issues, loss of husband, friends, family members, and plans that failed. Adversity brought me coping skills and strength. I wouldn’t have chosen some of the survival skills acquired, but hey, this is life. Having a positive attitude, laughing, staying proactive regarding wants, and exercise to keep my body strong work for me.
What do you love most about the place you are currently living?
Leaving Manhattan for the South was one of the best things ever, even though I did it kicking and screaming. It was a major lifestyle change, taking 5 years to fully work through. But the time was right, wildlife was right in my yard, and I discovered a world far more expansive in a 2400 sq ft house than a 700 sq ft. city pad. I finally owned a car, had an art studio to paint in, and learned to embrace an easier lifestyle. Winter is far less mean, and a gentle Autumn lasts forever.