Painters of varying skill levels came together during Paint Nite on Sept. 29 but it was international student Harmanjyot Singh who attracted most of the attention.
“I’ve won awards for painting in India,” said the construction engineering student, who has been in Canada two years.
In India, Singh won national titles and broad recognition on many of his visual art pieces, most notably his creations that depict the political system in India, as well global warming.
Under decorative lights in the AC Hub, he and other students laced up their smocks, grabbed a glass of bubbly, and decorated their blank canvases. Singh painted a city skyline-straying from the walkthrough of the fall picture. His individuality drew a crowd of inspired students.
Paint Nite, an event that was started in 2012, was invented with the objective of encouraging people to drink creatively. The social affair has grown in popularity ever since and is held across the globe, even the Nation’s capitol.
Not only did the event attract experienced artists, students much like Erin MacLeod, a social service worker student, painted for the first time since childhood.
MacLeod saw a poster advertising the free event to students. She decided to attend after hearing positive feedback regarding the classes in her community.
“It’s a comfortable and relaxing working environment,” said MacLeod.
Relaxation and stress-relief was exactly what Sue Pridmore, event and volunteer assistant with the AC Hub, intended to provide to students.
Pridmore had attended Paint Nite in the past and jumped on the opportunity to provide students with the artistic social event for no cost.
“I didn’t engage with other students as much in University,” said Pridmore with regret.
New to her role with the AC Hub, Pridmore plans to provide activities for students that encourage participation and socializing.
The event hostess, Allyson Luedtke, drew several laughs with her sarcasm and stories of past clients as she walked through how to paint the fall picture. She explained how to mix colours and how to use different types of paint brushes.
Luedtke started working with Paint Nite in Ottawa in February 2015. Using scrapbooks, she proudly showcased the designs of those who attended her workshops, especially pieces created by individuals with disabilities. Luedtke is passionate about the benefits of art therapy.
“I’m so grateful you’re creating, participating- thank you,” said Luedtke.