Submitted photos
Vino & Van Gogh members participate in downtown event , from left Dillan Ladner , Marsha Iverson , Rosemary Kahlmus , Wanda Price , Cary Haycox , Kris Gianakos and Laura Carmichael . choose while enjoying the camaraderie of new or old friends .”
Somewhat like the early Impressionists might have done in Paris .
While started by a group of art educators , Vino and Van Gough is open to everyone at all art skill levels . During the weekly sessions , which are held Thursdays from 5:30-7:30 p . m ., participants work in a casual and fun atmosphere to discover or nurture their creative said .
“ Vino and Van Gogh ’ s aim is to make painting not only a fun social event , but also an adventure you can commit to on a limited basis ,” Iverson said .
The relaxed atmosphere also helps remove some of the stigma often associated with art .
“ Many people feel that they are not talented enough , do not understand art enough , or are unable to create anything because art is reserved for the lucky few that have the gift ,” Iverson said . “ I also believe that if you are human , then you are capable of feelings and self-expression . And having this , you can in some form express said emotions by whatever form interests you . This is especially true in a safe and welcoming environment .” Participants such as Wanda Dean Price agree . “ The Vino group meets every Thursday evening at the Meridian Art Museum to share their thoughts , interest , and techniques … Our interests and styles are very diverse and range from oil , watercolor , acrylic , or many other mediums like pastels or pencils ,” said Price , a Meridian nurse who is among the program ’ s core participants .
“ It is a time to enjoy our passion for art . A set aside time away from the hectic activities of our home where we can be with a group of special friends that share the same love and appreciation of art in all forms ,” Price said .
“ I enjoy the constructive criticism from the talented artists in the group ,” Meridian landscape designer Rosemary Kahlmus said .
Retired forester Bob Jeffers describes Vino & Van Gogh ” as a place where friends can meet to discuss life and learn about art .
“ We all come with varying strengths and abilities — no one is the master or teacher and everyone has the ability to learn ,” Jeffers said . “ Many times , explaining what you see in someone else ’ s art helps you develop similar improvements in your own . Almost none of us work in the same media ( oils , acrylics , water colors , pencils , etc ). Some people work on projects while others just watch . As an example , this past week I watched two people blow through a straw into soap bubbles , add drops of colored dye , and then apply those bubbles to their art . Plus , it ’ s fun .” Joining Vino & Van Gogh is easy as 1-2-3 . 1 . Sign up . Call the Meridian Museum of Art at ( 60 ) 693-1501 . Join the museum and join for a funfilled collaboration .
2 . Show-up , Thursdays , from 5:30-7:30 p . m . at Meridian Museum of Art , 628 25th Ave . Wine glasses , corkscrews , music , and easels provided .
3 . Paint ! Bring your own art materials of choice : drawing , painting , etc . T www . meridianstar . com
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