I’m a pretty artsy type – my favorite subject in school was art. My creative side exists just under the surface and most recently manifests itself through my writing. But I’ve always loved drawing, painting, pottery and crafts too.

So, it’s strange to me that I had never attended a painting party where inactive creatives, like me, can get a dose of artistic expression in a fun, unintimidating setting.

This was the case until November 8^th when I gathered a group of fellow pet lovers and took over North Andover’s premier painting studio, Painting with a Twist. I first discovered Painting with a Twist at an art event held in their fabulous studio space at 10 High Street. I love their location tucked into the growing High Street Mill area. The rustic brick and exposed venting along with the colorful studio décor create such a cool vibe.

At the art event I had the pleasure of meeting studio owner, Dee Dellovo. Dee is a sweetheart and in no time we agreed that a collaboration was in order. Paint Your Paint was a no-brainer. I was so thrilled with my first experience, I can’t wait to go back for one of their regularly scheduled events. There are a variety of scenes to paint – a family night would be great. I’d love to see the varied interpretations we’d each come up with from our blank canvases.

Paint Your Pet

As for our pets, as artsy as I think I am, I could never produce a version of Oscar to do him justice. So, for Paint Your Pet, you submit a photo of your furry friend and the team of artists at Painting with a Twist sketch your pet in advance.

This head start does not, in any way, take away from the hard work required to successfully paint your pet. As we novice painters put brush to canvas we quickly realized the effort and attention to detail required. Thankfully, we had the help of Dee, DJ and Sam who guided us in transforming our portraits into passion projects to be proud of.

Refreshments

To add to the enjoyment, we brought in beverages and munchies to nosh on while breaking to admire each other’s masterpieces. Good Day Café’s Sweet Bite tray and Roasted Veggie Tuscan bread (so good) were perfect.

Oscar on Canvas

My portrait of Oscar is hanging in my home office and I can honestly say that I’m thrilled with it. I look at my creation and smile every time. Not just because of the handsome subject, but because I feel pretty darn good about how it turned out.

Interested?

The holidays are a great time to gather friends and family for something different and fun.

Check out Painting with A Twist’s upcoming themes (December has some great Christmas ideas). Or call or email to coordinate your own birthday or paint and sip party!

978-291-5827

studio306@paintingwithatwist.com

Thank you to Painting with a Twist for a great night and my fellow pet painters who joined me!