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MONDAY, JUNE 9, 2014
THE UNIVERSITY DAILY KANSAN
Local paint and wine studio inspires creativity
AMELIA ARVESEN
news@kansan.com
Just like handwriting, nobody's brushstrokes are exactly the same, which is why Charlotte Larson Pemberton finds it inspiring to work at Painted Kanvas, an instructor-led paint studio at 1540 Wakarasa Dr.
Classes are held most days of the week and are priced around $40. Students register for the painting of their choice, like the 1912 Jayhawk, and are led through the process by the artist. The studio also hosts open paint hours, which welcomes patrons to use the acrylic paints, canvas and other supplies for a small fee.
What sets Painted Kanvas apart from typical studios is the full bar stocked with Kansas-based beverages like Blue Jacket wines from Eudora.
"Everybody seems to loosen up," Pemberton said. "It makes it more of a special occasion."
Pemberton, a nontraditional student majoring in illustration, started working as an instructor when the studio opened in late March. She said seeing students recreate her original
painting is her favorite part about leading a class.
The inspiration and persistence to open a paint-and-sip studio came from co-owner Chelsea Rose, whose business partner and husband, Dan, is a 2012 graduate. After years of brainstorming, the idea to pair painting and drinking finally clicked.
My picture isn't nearly as good what our artists can do, but it's relaxing. It's therapy.
CHELSEA ROSE
Painted Canvas co-owner
In the studio, small easels with blank canvases perch upon dark, marble tabletops. The walls display a gallery of brightly painted canvases as examples of the variation in technique and talent.
"I don't have an art background, but everyone is an artist," Rose said. "You
Rose said a major part of the business draws from Lawrence's eclectic influence. In addition to choice of drinks, the artists who lead classes are locals like Pemberton.
"I could have just a terrible day and come in here and try to paint." Rose said. "My picture isn't as good as what our artists can do, but it's relaxing. It's therapy."
The space can be booked for private parties, and Rose said she has hostedbridal showers, bachelorette parties,sorority events, office gatherings,birthdays and fundraisers. Painted Kanvas also participates in Final Fridays, a monthly downtown art event.
Students don't have to be 21 to take a class, though. The bar is an added bonus to the artistic experience for those who are of age.
"It it just kinda enhances that creativity and silliness," Rose said. "Sometimes people need that."
Edited by Tom DeHart
KELSEY WEAVER/KANSAN
Painted Canvas instructor Eric Darmstaeder leads a class in painting a 1912 Jayhawk. Painted Canvas is a paint and wine studio located at 1540 Wakarusa Dr.