Paint a little, sip a little

Everyone needs art, according to Love4Art Studio owner and artist Tammy Leaver.

"Art is so important to our health and happiness," says Leaver. "Painting can be an escape from reality, a sanctuary."

This is a sentiment shared by many as the growing popularity of paint and sip events are popping up all over the area.

The concept is simple: students register online or by phone for the painting theme they like best and then come in for the event with their beverage of choice.

The artist then helps the novice through their creation with step-by-step instruction. Most classes cost between $30-$40 and include the materials needed to create a masterpiece.

"Art is important in education, too. It teaches us to think outside the box, not only for artists but professionals in all walks of life," says Leaver, who started her studio about a year ago.

Love4Art is located on Interchange Road in Lehighton behind the Quilted Crow.

The Tamaqua Arts Center has been around for three years and has added a plethora of paint classes with artist Phil Krivenko.

"It's a BYOB event but it doesn't have to be alcohol, mostly it's water and coffee. But people do bring their bottle of wine," he said.

The hardest part of the event is the doubt.

"People don't think they can do it, if you walk someone through anything, step by step, they can do it. A lot of people think it's hard and you need talent but everyone can paint. It's overrated as far as difficulties goes," Krivenko said.

Krivenko owns and operates Art and Vino in Wilkes-Barre, where he and a few other artist employees teach different classes.

He has been an artist all his life, using the blackboard as a child and working his way up to oil painting. He heard about the paint and sip idea from a student.

"It was such a great concept. I knew it was for me. I like to teach and design and it just fit," he said.

Leona Rega, Tamaqua Arts Center director, contacted Krivenko about two years ago to teach painting classes while students sip from their glasses.

"What's really nice is you spend $30-$40 and have a good time. When you go home with the painting, it could eventually be a family heirloom," Krivenko said.

According to Krivenko, the rumor is that the idea originated as a fundraiser in Louisiana after the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina. It became so popular that the idea spread all over the country, eventually making its way to Carbon and Schuylkill counties.

Like Krivenko, Leaver is also a longtime painter.

"My dad was trained in art and my mom was very creative. We painted as a family for fun, so art is in my blood."

Leaver has worked as a volunteer children's art teacher for over 20 years. Teaching children has helped her to run a smooth paint and sip class for adults.

"I break everything down into simple steps and shapes. My goal is for everyone to have fun and learn a little something. I guide my students through the process, giving suggestions and encouragement."

Leaver is passionate about art and believes it is healing for the soul.

"Most people come to the studio to relax for a night. Some come to the classes to be better artist; others come for a bonding moment with family and friends."

Leaver teaches classes most days of the week that are family-friendly.

In Tamaqua, Rega also runs family-fun classes at the arts center.

"It's a family event. On Saturday mornings moms can come with their kids."

The Tamaqua Arts Center has really taken off, adding other art classes like pottery to the roster.

"Painting used to be the most popular, but now all the classes are well-attended."

Just like Leaver's studio the arts center holds painting classes most nights of the week. It also offers custom framing for the amateur artist's creation for a small fee.

The paint and sip subject matter and themes have an expansive range. Holiday-themed classes draw the most crowds, so advance registration for both studios is strongly recommended.

Both studios will also schedule private parties as well as work with charities for fundraising events.

To register for classes or for more information on the studios visit websites www.love4art.net or www.tamaquaarts.org or their Facebook pages.