Valentine’s Day is Friday and with that comes celebrating someone special.
Former art teacher Addi Kelly owns her own art business. Every month people of all ages come to a “Paint and Sip at Pick Me Up,” where Kelly guides attendees in a painting adventure.
Kelly started these monthly Paint and Sips after she had her son and stepped back from public education.
"But I still want to be in the art scene. I love art, I really enjoy teaching, and it's such a cool experience to see people develop their talents. Especially when they don't think they can paint at all,” Kelly said.
Kelly said she wanted to do something that was the “best of both worlds,” being a mom and teaching art.
The event takes place at Pick Me Up at the 210 N. 2nd E. location in Rexburg. When attendees come, they’ll mark that they’ve arrived. Everyone will place their name on a card and place it on their spot. All the tables will have canvases, paint, brushes and a step-by-step guide for painting the subject.
Normally, Paint and Sips include pictures like landscapes, but this event is unique. Each person will paint another person. Although it can be intimidating, Kelly shares some encouragement.
“You can do it. I'm there, I've got your back. I provide … some tutorials and training and I can give you the tips and tricks, so that you feel confident about what you're painting. But the hope is that if you're coming with … a partner, friend, significant other, whoever you're bringing, that you can just … let loose and just have fun and, you know, don't take yourself too seriously,” Kelly said.
She said that even if the painting doesn’t turn out how you want it, it’s part of the process.
Kelly will host two two-hour sessions on Feb. 15. Sessions are at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. and are $40 for 2 painters. Although the 6 o’clock session is full, the 3 o’clock session has open spots.
Drinks can be purchased separately at Pick Me Up.