Local couple gives novices a chance to try painting

Art parties are springing up coast to coast, and Southeast Missouri is no exception.

At these events, a person's artistic talent isn't an issue; the point is to enjoy painting or crafting with others.

New to Cape Girardeau is An Art Party, the creation of Jack and Patty Mitchell, who are hosting the parties in Tailwinds R/C Hobby Center at 21 Plaza Way. Groups can book a private three-hour art party, and Wednesdays are open for people to stop in and try their hands at painting.

The Mitchells provide the supplies to create the paintings, and the canvasses are lightly stenciled with the outline of the painting. No art skill is required.

The main point of parties is fun and relaxation, Jack Mitchell, said, adding the art-party space can accommodate 16 people with a minimum age of 21.

Reclaimed Home Decor and Gifts, 8515 Main St. in Altenburg, Missouri, has its own take on the art party, called Wine and Design. The first Friday of each month, the shop invites people to create a project. The cost is $25, which includes all materials and complimentary wine; participants may bring their own food.

"There is a different project every month, and everyone puts their own flare on it," Nicole Moore, owner of the Altenburg shop, said, adding the next session is at 7 p.m. Dec. 5.

On a recent Saturday, Leighann Ludolph hosted a group at An Art Party after hearing about similar events from a sister who lives elsewhere.

Ludolph, the mother of two sons, created a painting of a cross to hang in her family's Scripture room. The others participating in the event created pictures with their initials on a chevron background. One created her piece of art with the new initials she will acquire after she is married next month, and another created her piece with her daughter's initials as a gift.

An Art Party also offers mixed-media sessions, using stencils, stamps, chalk and other media in the art, and plans are underway for paint-your-pet sessions. The cost of each session is $30, which includes canvas, paint and accommodations. Participating artists may provide their own food and beverages, but the hosts may provide tableware.

More information about An Art Party is at anartparty.com or by calling 651-8778. More information about Wine and Design is available by calling 979-2692.