The Fall season has a way of inviting us to slow down. As the mountains of Southwest Virginia transform into a brilliant canvas of reds, oranges, and golds, the changing season reminds us that there is beauty in transition, inspiration in nature, and something special about taking a moment to appreciate the world around us.
On Tuesday, October 27, The CAM will welcome local artist Debbie Jackson back for the second installment of her art class series, Painting with Purpose: Colors & Dreams of Fall. From 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., participants will gather for an evening of creativity, reflection, and artistic expression inspired by the gifts of autumn.
Those who attended Debbie’s first class, Create With Joy, may remember her refreshing approach to art. Rather than focusing on technique, perfection, or recreating a particular image, Debbie encourages participants to embrace their own creativity and discover the joy of making something uniquely theirs. Her philosophy is simple: creativity belongs to everyone, not just those who consider themselves artists.
This second class builds upon that philosophy while introducing a thoughtful seasonal theme. Colors & Dreams of Fall invites participants to reflect on what this season means to them and translate those thoughts and feelings onto a canvas. For some, fall may represent change and new beginnings. For others, it may bring memories of family traditions, the comfort of familiar places, or gratitude for life’s many blessings. Whatever the season inspires, each participant will have the freedom to express it through art.
Unlike traditional painting classes where everyone follows an instructor step by step to produce nearly identical paintings, Debbie’s classes celebrate individuality. There is no predetermined picture to copy, no expectation of perfection, and certainly no wrong way to create. Instead, the emphasis is on the experience itself: slowing down, exploring ideas, and enjoying the creative process. Most would agree this is something we could all use a little more of.
In a world where our daily schedules are jam-packed and our attention is pulled in countless directions, setting aside the evening simply to create can be a gift in itself. Whether you’re an experienced painter, someone who hasn’t picked up a paintbrush since elementary school, or a person who has always insisted you don’t have an artistic bone in your body, this class is for you.
Participants are encouraged to bring a friend and make an evening of it, or come alone and enjoy meeting others who share an interest in trying something new. All painting supplies will be provided. Attendees should bring a journal and pen for reflection and note-taking, along with a water bottle.
As The CAM continues expanding its programming beyond traditional theatrical productions, classes like Debbie’s represent an important part of our vision. We want The CAM to be a place where creativity takes many forms, where people of all ages and interests can discover something new, and where our community can gather for experiences that enrich their lives. From live theatre and concerts to workshops and visual arts, every new offering helps us grow into our name — The Community Arts MainStage.
Painting with Purpose: Colors & Dreams of Fall will be held Tuesday, October 27, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The CAM. Registration is $35 per person, and seating is limited. Tickets may be purchased online at www.seeyouatthecam.com/tickets.
As Debbie reminds us through her approach to art, you don’t have to be an artist to create something meaningful. Sometimes all it takes is a little inspiration, a willingness to try, and the freedom to let your imagination lead the way.
We have more going on than we ever have, and we continue to grow our programming. Keep up with it all on our social media and at www.seeyouatthecam.com. See you at The CAM.
