The first Art & Spirits was led by artist John Harrell painting cable cars. Pictured here is Harrell with the first class proudly displaying their finished paintings.
The cable cars were so popular Harrell brought them back in February 2022.
Arbor Gallery has been offering the community a night to paint, called Art & Spirits, since Feb. 19, 2016. It is held on the third Friday each month.
“We want to inspire people to enjoy the pleasure of creating art and to develop a passion for art as we have done while also supporting our art community,” says Jackie Anderson, president of Arbor Gallery.
Arbor Gallery began nearly 40 years ago by a group of local artists. The gallery is filled with amazing art by the co-op group of artists and is located inside the Multicultural Art Center at 645 W. Main St., in between the Mainzer and El Capitan Hotel in downtown Merced.
Currently, there are seven artists of Arbor Gallery who take turns volunteering their time and skills to teach how to paint a painting selected for Art & Spirits: Jackie Anderson, John Harrell, Tonia Hemme, Carole Kamerer, Karen McComb, Ethel Nelson and Rose Tripp. Each artist brings their own style and approach to painting. They offer different techniques they are passionate about sharing.
Art & Spirits can be a bonding experience for the whole family to enjoy with each member creating their own painting to take home. Ages 8 and above are welcome. Over the years, many couples have taken the opportunity to use Art & Spirits as a unique and romantic date night.
At the end of each class, a group picture is taken with the student’s completed paintings and the painting, completed by the artist during class, is given away to one of the students.
On Friday, Aug. 19, 2022, the Art & Spirits class will be painting tropical palms, pictured left, led by local artist Tonia Hemme.
The cost of $35 per person, set in 2016, remains the same which provides for all the painting supplies and complimentary refreshments. The proceeds are donated to the Merced County Arts Council and used to fund ARTREE and other art programs throughout Merced County.
Call Bo for reservations at the MAC at (209) 388-1090.