Dianne Brown, the Jamaican-born chairperson of the Higher Education Committee at Fenimore Street United Methodist Church (FSUMC) has described as “joyous” and “amusing” the committee’s Third Annual Christmas Sip and Paint Fundraiser at the Brooklyn church on Saturday, Dec. 20.
“We must admit that it was not easy owing to the economic changes, such as inflation and keen budgeting that impact people’s spending,” said Brown, referring to her committee. “But I must say it was an amusing evening, well-supported, with approximately 36 participants and with two wonderful instructors, Charlie and Tasha (Miller), mother and daughter duo.
“Despite the cold temperatures, life is just what you make of it,” she added. “The shared joyous moments, shared by those who had participated in the event before, inspired others to come and paint.
“The setting up was a little hectic, as there was so much going on at our church,” Brown continued. “Some church members, including our pastor, the Rev. Roger Jackson, and his wife (First Lady Kim Jackson) helped the Higher Education team get organized by pouring paint into the pallets.
“One of the many values at Fenimore UMC is that we lift each up for the greater good,” she said, stating that, after setting up, “the menu was ready for all to enjoy, which was not a disappointment.”
Brown said the instructors “showed up with lively energy that transcended onto us, and they were ready to turn one’s hand to painting.”
She said participants painted a Winter Wonderland, using colors such as blue, black, purple, pink, and white.
She said participants painted a Winter Wonderland, using colors such as blue, black, purple, pink, and white.
“As soon as the artists introduced themselves, they indicated that there is no such thing as a mistake, just happy little incidents,” Brown said. “You are the artist, and you get to decide. There is no right or wrong; it doesn’t have to be the same as the hard copy.
“They explained the focal point (the area of the painting that draws the viewers’ eyes first) boosted curiosity,” she added. “As the participants began their paintings, they were focused, while their faces beamed with joy.”
During the two-hour-long session, Brown said, “Charlie showed off a few impressive paintings, and some had a good laugh at their work.
“Overhaul, we had a jocose of a time, because everyone shared some sentimental values about art, with a fun twist,” she said. “We are proud to say that Charlie and Tasha are encouraging, intelligent, patient, professional, and interactive, and we wouldn’t mind having them again.
“Many accolades to all who supported us, and the team Higher Education Committee for planning this event and the Almighty God for making it possible,” Brown added.
Vincentian Shankia Ricards, who, with her family, has been attending the Sip and Paint fundraiser from the very inception, told Caribbean Life that it’s great to “just gather and unwind with your loved ones.
Vincentian Shankia Ricards, who, with her family, has been attending the Sip and Paint fundraiser from the very inception, told Caribbean Life that it’s great to “just gather and unwind with your loved ones.
“We gather, unwind, and learn something new – the atmosphere, the people, we talk, we learn to do something new,” said the Brooklyn resident. “My sister (Kisha Richards-David) and daughter (Azariah Richards) love it.”
