BY ERICA MILOSH
On Oct. 23, Student Involvement provided the Nichols community with a fun, artistic, and relaxing event in Fels Student Center. Students and a few staff and faculty were able to enjoy their Friday night by painting an autumn scene on canvas.
The painting instruction was lead by “Just Paint,” located on Shrewsbury Street in Worcester, Mass. Its owner, Susan Dunshee, says she enjoys putting on these events to expose adults and children to art. Local artist Mustafa Najm helped Susan to teach the art lesson. He gained his experience by teaching art at universities in Iraq.
Fels lounge was filled with a light-hearted atmosphere as students tried out their painting techniques. The event was directed toward seniors, but others were also welcome to join. Overall, 50 people participated.
Carmen Garcia, a junior criminal justice major, had a great time working on her masterpiece.
“It’s easier than I thought it would be, but the details are hard,” she said. “I’m glad I came; this is different from other events.”
First-year student Karan Saini, a business communication major, was grateful to take a break from midterms.
“I needed this distraction from homework,” said Saini.
Everyone’s artwork varied; some students stuck to the instruction, while others experimented with colors and techniques.
Senior class president and international business and finance double major Sean Hoey was one of those who strayed from the herd with his creative painting.
“I am the next Pablo Picasso,” he said. “I’m not sure what any of this is, but it looks good to me.”
Most students wrapped up their masterpieces just after 10 p.m. The overall reaction to the event was positive. It was a great opportunity for students, professors, and staff to get to know each other outside the usual professional or academic setting. Any stress from the busy semester seemed to dissipate among the amateur artists. Many students expressed interest in holding another paint and sip night, or trying something else creative.
Those 21 and older were welcome to sip wine whilst they painted. Police officers were present in Fels to check IDs and to make sure anyone who was allowed to drink was doing so responsibly.
Erica Milosh is a Nichols College senior English major and a contributor to Bison Chronicles.