| I am a creative person. However, I cannot draw or paint a picture better than your average 3rd grade child. So when my friend Melissa invited me to come to an instructional paint party, I was intrigued. |  |
 |
So, I spent my Saturday evening in a painter’s smock in front of a 16×20 canvas and created a piece of art! Well, “art” is a relative term. Having strong perfectionistic streak in my personality, I wanted to do this just right. But, as one of the girls kept reminding us all throughout the night, “there are no mistakes in art!” |
This was SO much fun and not nearly as intimidating or difficult as I expected it to be. The instructor took us step-by-step through the process of painting this bold floral piece. We were encouraged to bring appetizers and drinks, so that we could mingle and snack while we literally watched paint dry. What was really cool was seeing how all of our paintings turned out a little differently, each reflecting our personalities more than our skill level.
| My friend Diana’s painting was somewhat abstract and experimental, while my friend Regina’s painting was vibrant and spirited. Each was reflective of her individual personality and personal style. |  |
 |
This was my finished project. I think the best part was the reaction my daughters had when they saw my painting. They oohed and aahed and even said it looked like something you’d find at TJ Maxx! I think that was a compliment. 🙂 All I know is that I definitely want to do this again – maybe an old dog CAN learn new tricks! |
These kind of instructional workshops are popping up all over the country. What a fun way to explore your creative side, hang out with friends, and create a piece of art for your home! If you live in Nashville, I encourage you to visit Linda at Paint Along in Brentwood, TN. Tell her I sent you!
.
what a great idea! your painting is darling…
I’m so glad you blogged about your painting experience. This looks like it would be so fun!
That is pretty amazing! I love the idea that some instruction can make someone (like me) appear to have some hidden artist inside.
Well I feel honored that our creative GNO made your blog!!! Your painting DOES look like something from TJs 😉 Smart girls. Next time, we’ll take them too!!!
Very cool! I love your painting!
Well, maybe there is hope for someone like me after all! I love your finished product – great job!
I love that you painted your pail blue instead of orange. I’m not a supporter of orange! Really good work!
Upon further investigation, I realize that what I was seeing as a pail or vase is actually a flower. I assume that the problem is with my eyes and not your fabulous creative ability. Though, I am still against orange!
Lezlie – yes, my flower does look like a pail!!! The problem is not with your eyes, but my lack of painting skill/talent. But glad you like the blue better! 🙂
I did one of these classes and had a blast! We did a painting of a cross and I was looking under Cam’s bed one day for something and found my painting. I asked him why in the world it was there and he said it was so pretty that he wanted it in his room to look at it. At which point he could have asked for anything and I’ve have said yes!!
Excellent article! We are linking to this particularly great article on our site.
Keep up the good writing.