By Chris Hagan
Review Staff Writer
Art can often be viewed in similarity to California wineries; places only the rich and snobby converse over hors d’oeuvres and black tuxedos.
But happening all over the country is a phenomena of a transitioning world of fine art to fun art. Art galleries are partnering with artists and hosting events for people with no artistic experiences allowing them to create their masterpieces.
The Orion Art Center will be hosting an event and fundraiser of the same fashion on Thursday, April 2 at The Studio located at 416 S Broadway.
Regardless of talent, or lack thereof, guests are invited to the OAC Painting Party to meet new people and express themselves through art in a relaxed atmosphere. Local artist Eugene Clark will be guiding the brush strokes through the class in a step-by-step format ensuring everyone leaves with a creation they’ll cherish.
‘It’s our job to serve the community and to connect the arts to everybody,? OAC Executive Director James Jenkins said. ‘You don’t have to be an artist to participate but the help you do get from Eugene will allow you to have a fun time and get some expert instruction.?
Not only will the art center be providing all the materials needed to create the painting, but they’ll also be providing an appetizer table for the participants. Similar to other art galleries, the painting party fundraiser is also inviting people to bring a bottle of wine or other refreshment of their choosing to enjoy during the event.
Clark, whose experience has led him to teach at the College for Creative Studies and Oakland University, offered to volunteer his services for the painting party fundraiser as a way to give back to the art center and help out the community.
It’s Clark’s talent and reputation that the OAC believes sets their event apart from chain locations like Painting with a Twist.
‘He has a way of making everyone feel welcomed and talented,? chair of OAC’s Social Committee Alana Hart said. ‘Every guest will leave with a beautiful painting, but the fact that you are being taught by a professor who has been painting for over 25 years, you can’t get that anywhere.?
The painting the guests will be recreating is of a sailboat coasting through the open waters at sunset. The decision to go with the piece was area-driven according to Jenkins, representing the community of Lake Orion and it’s deep connection with lakes.
Tickets are $40 dollars and that includes all the art supplies needed and it covers appetizers. It runs from 6-9pm and anyone interested can contact the Orion Art Center at 248-693-4986 for more details.