We Will Paint Together Again

I would have never been able to predict the things we have all experienced so far in 2020.  From a world-wide pandemic, to political division and unrest, and social isolation from having to quarantine, the times seem more uncertain than ever. 

Mental health has always been a passionate issue of mine for personal reasons, but with all the uncertainties of 2020, mental health has become even more important to pay attention to. Watching the news alone, can spike anxiety, and isolation from the pandemic has increased depression world-wide, across all populations.

Obviously with social distancing, my business, as well as other paint and sip businesses in Connecticut, suffer.  But as time goes on, and it becomes safe enough to resume gatherings, I encourage paint parties more than ever. 

Art is extremely beneficial for mental health.  Not many people, unless they consider themselves artists or are enrolled in an art class, gravitate towards doing art on their own.  People are very critical of “not being good enough” as artists to do art, or perhaps they use the age old excuse; they don’t have time.  The truth is, art is for everyone. Scientifically speaking, it’s just as important for your well-being to make time for art as it is to exercise.  Everything around us is art and therefore it is easily accessible. And, we all have an inner artist, whether you are in touch with it or not.  Paint and sips encourage people to get together, relax and be guided to paint. Painting itself, with each brushstroke on the canvas, is a type of meditation, just in motion.  I always encourage freedom of expression, meaning you don’t have to paint a blue sky just because I said so.  This allows for people to get in touch with their moods and express themselves freely.  Usually the more you sip, the freer you get.  Art has been shown to decrease pain, raise serotonin and promote better concentration and brain function.  The wonderful thing about paint parties, is you paint as a group, so you get the personal benefits of painting as well as the social benefits of being around people.  Being guided to paint also helps people who might otherwise be afraid of a blank canvas and say they have no idea what to paint or where to start.  Lastly, color. Color therapy actually exists. Painting with bright, vibrant colors can enhance mood and feelings of optimism.  So there you have it…for all the reasons stated, and many more that I’ve left out, I hope you consider hosting a “paint party ,” “paint night,” “paint and sip” or whatever else they call these awesome events, when it is safe to gather again. You’ll have a blast reuniting with friends and after the traumatic events we’ve all endured in 2020, everyone could benefit from a little “Art Therapy”. I hope to see you all again soon.  Until we meet again though, consider having a virtual paint party, where you can paint and sip in the comfort of your own home while on zoom with friends and family all over the world.  Please email me for more information: Pam@CTPaintParties.com.  Paint on my friends….