Learning to Play Again:Finding Freedom with the Tuesday Morning Painters
By Celia Dyer
(L-R) Lynda Earley (seated), Lavern Butchart, Gail Busby, Angie McCauley, Elli Chambers, Murray Balser and Caroline Haima
(Photo credit: Celia Dyer)
A recent visit with the Tuesday Morning Painters at Blind Bay Hall revealed that their weekly sessions are about much more than creating art.
An accepting, open vibe welcomes you, and before you know it, you are participating in the warm-up activity—even if the thought of putting paintbrush to paper would normally fill you with dread.
You’re told that it’s all about letting go and learning to play again. It is about acknowledging the kid you used to be, when joy came from whatever your imagination could dream up.
Somehow, the energy of this group invites that freedom. There is not a hint of judgment in the room—only a happy sharing and a feeling that says: “I’m glad to be here with you”.
Members meet at Blind Bay Hall on Tuesdays and spend a few hours indulging in their favourite activity and learning from one another. Some have been painting with different groups at the Hall for over 20 years; others have taken up the hobby recently.
There is a comfortable ‘go with the flow’ atmosphere. Every week can be different. “Some weeks we learn and practice a new technique. Some weeks we all do our own thing. I like the freedom and the variety” says Lynda Earley, one of the painters.
These artists enjoy painting together. As an onlooker, you sense that the act of creating is at the heart of their gatherings as much as their final creations. Artist Lavern Butchart observes that “this is a safe place where you are free to experiment, you can work on your own or you can engage with others. There is no expectation to ‘be’ anything.”
And though there is a diversity of painting experience, there is a feeling of collaborative goodwill. They celebrate each other’s successes and seem to know when feedback is welcome or when quiet space is appreciated.
Sharing lunch after the painting session, the artists all echo the same sentiment: they come for the company, the fun and the learning. Angie McCauley says her fellow painters give her incentive and her art is constantly growing because of their support and input.
They are grateful to their host, Blind Bay Hall, for the beautiful facility. “The lighting, the space and the view make this a perfect place for us to meet” says Elli Chambers, one of the founders of the Tuesday Morning Painters.
There is no cost to belong to the group but a drop-in fee ($3 for Hall members, $6 for non-members) goes to the Hall for the use of the facility. Artists bring their own supplies.
The result of the warm-up activity is propped up on my desk. I’ll keep it; not for its artistry but for the memory of the encouraging words, the kindly given advice. They are good teachers! A door was opened and I know I will always be welcome, which is the best starting point for any learning.
For more information about the Tuesday Morning Painters, please contact Elli at (780) 245 3554.
