When I first heard Drink N’ Draw I thought, “What a spectacular idea! Why didn’t someone think of this sooner!” Short answer – they did. Combining visual art and alcohol is a whole “thing” that has endless variations. And why not? Everyone derived entertainment from pencils and paper as a kid. So let’s drink ourselves back to 3rd grade and do some colorin’. Brilliant!
That day, freezing rain coated the streets and things looked bleak. Fortunately, organizer Eric Clausen took time to personally message Facebook RSVPer’s to let us know Drink N’ Draw was still on that night. Feeling a small duty to the amateur-drawer demographic, I re-confirmed. When it comes to visual art, I’m not someone you’d turn to for anything fancy like technique or basic skills. I do have an eclectic exactly-what-I-see style that reflects my personal philosophy of child-like wonder. Self-taught. Since new things scare me, I also enlisted another first-time drunk drawer for backup. Ready, set, art!
With five dollars and a couple ciders in hand, we journeyed to Amurica and immediately met Eric and Michelle, both accomplished artists. Michelle is an illustrator by trade and Eric is well-known for his various murals on Amurica’s walls. I pressed them for stories from previous drink&draws, trying to get a feel for the concept. Still a little shy, I quickly shed my worry as I learned there are prizes for best and worst drawing. Self-nominations only ’cause, ya know, Be Nice Or Leave. With an attainable goal in sight, I let my imagination spill unchecked onto blank paper. The bonus category for the evening was ballsiest drawing. Spoiler alert, it went to guy who drew genitals.
Once everyone had a beer, we explored a foray of drawing games designed to spark creativity. An Exquisite Corpse, lay in the corner for solitary (and anonymous) doodling time. We played Deface Yo’ Face with some beautifully hilarious results. Everyone participated in Reverse Hangman – a game of Clausen’s childhood. I don’t remember the exact rules, but it’s definitely violent. At one point, Clausen illustrated some basic tips on portraiture. (Pun intended.) Cultivating a warm and relaxed atmosphere, everyone nonchalantly doodled at their own pace.
The supplies were varied and plentiful. Personally, I’m a sucker for multicolored Sharpies and bright white paper. I must have picked up and affection for high contrast working in radiology. Time flew by as new friendships blossomed and various works of art emerged. The opportunity to sketch and scribble uninterrupted is a gift. The experience ignites a deep nostalgia that draws you in. (Pun intended.) I’m excited for the second one coming up in March. Trust me, more people equals more fun so bring your friends. They will thank you.