iCANvas Paint! and you can too

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Ashley Wolfe
  • 47th Flying Training Wing public affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  If you are looking for a great stress reliever and sweating at the gym just isn't your thing, iCANvas Paint! offers a fun alternative to explore your creative side.

iCANvas Paint! is a class offered by the 47th Force Support Squadron Frame and Woodcraft shop at Laughlin.

The Frame and Woodcraft shop provides the canvas, paintbrushes, paint, easels, aprons and instructor for $25, and at the end of the evening you get to walk away with your very own work of art.

The idea for iCANvas Paint! was provided by John Day, Frame and Woodcraft shop manager, after learning about similar programs in cities such as Atlanta and New Orleans.

"It is the most successful program we have ever offered. Already seven classes and more than 100 students in less than six weeks!" said Day.

Marie Martelly, Frame and Woodcraft shop picture framer, is the instructor for the classes. She has a degree in Art History and has taken art classes from McGill University in Montreal, Canada. She even has an art exhibit opening at the Firehouse, an art gallery in Del Rio, in June.

"I have always loved to paint and I am really excited to help bring something like this to Laughlin. We're bringing art to people who would never have picked up a paintbrush otherwise," said Martelly.

Every class, Martelly teaches how to paint a work of art such as Van Gogh's "Starry Night". She takes suggestions from her students on what to paint in upcoming classes and even hosts private classes for groups of ten or larger.

"My favorite part of teaching is even though I instruct how to paint, every piece comes out unique. Everyone has their own style," said Martelly.

Upcoming class dates are March 17, April 14 and April 21. The cost is $25 per person and payment of the fee reserves the spot. Beverages and food are welcome at each class.

If interested in registering for a class, scheduling a private class or learning more about the program, contact the Frame and Woodcraft shop at 830-298-5153 or visit www.laughlinservices.com.