“I scream. You scream. We all scream for ice cream!” Thanks to Certifikid, I was introduced to a new program at the US Arts Center called Sundaes & Canvas. What could be more fun than painting and eating ice cream while doing so? When we arrived, the owners informed us that the response for the class was so big that they had to use the lobby for space. At any given time, there is usually more than one class going on at the same time. The walls of the center are adorned in children’s artwork.
Long tables were set up allowing for close quarters with our neighbors. Each person has a small easel, canvas, paint palette, cup of water, pencil, two paint brushes and a disposable apron. One mother was smart and brought a kitchen apron from home.
A projection on the screen displayed the artwork we were going to create titled “Yum Yum Sundaes.” Our instructor, Kayla, was awesome. She saw the puzzled look on our faces wondering how we were going to create said picture. Welcome to painting 101. “It’s all about shapes,” Kayla said. Sure enough, shape by shape, she walked us through the entire process using a pencil.
The instructor taught us how to mix colors to make brown for our ice-cream wafer and what the purpose was of a flat paintbrush versus a paintbrush with a rounded edge. Since we were using acrylic paints, they allowed us to paint over a mistake and ultimately make the drying process faster.
I have to say, I never had so much fun. Kayla emphasized the importance of making art your own work. Few of the 25 students in attendance modeled the picture to the tee. However, it was neat to observe everyone’s interpretation of the painting.
A little over halfway through the class, it was time for ice cream sundaes. The children all dropped their paint brushes, while the adults preferred to perfect their canvas creation. The sundae consisted of a scoop of vanilla ice cream, hot fudge and caramel sauces, sprinkles and a cinnamon churro. They do not use nuts in their sundaes.
Additional Information
- Sundaes and Canvas last 90 minutes and geared toward ages 5 and up. All events take place on the weekends. Parents are required to also purchase a ticket if they have children under the age of 12 in attendance. Wear something that you don’t mind getting dirty.
- The cost of Sundaes and Canvas is $25 per person. On their website, you can purchase a voucher for $12. Either way, I felt it was superb value for the experience. The only way you can sign up for the class is by purchasing your tickets online.
- There are many ice-cream themed painting choices, but also Dr. Seuss, Angry Birds and Disney movies. Upcoming classes include a Mother’s Day theme on May 5, and a scene from the movie Up on May 11. Check the website for other classes and to register online.
If you live in the vicinity, check out their options for full day summer camp. The program is for ages 4 to 13 and looks fantastic because it not only includes art, but also crafts, LEGO® engineering, and more.
