Paint and Sip : a journey with African art

“Art enables us to find ourselves and loose ourselves at the same time”

— Thomas Merton

Meeanjin held its very first African paint and sip event recently that was organised by Bomoko Women Events. Not only was Diva Headwraps invited to do a headwrap demonstration, but also to participate in the painting class alongside a tribe of queens. These images capture the very essence of this immensely fulfilling afternoon!

Markers in a jar on a wooden table, next to a bright flyer for "Bomoko Paint and Sip" and a gold paint bottle, creating a creative and inviting atmosphere. — Participants were encouraged to choose from a selection of bright acrylic paints and texture pens.

A diverse group of people sit around tables with sketchpads, listening to a speaker at a creative workshop. Artwork hangs on the walls, creating a vibrant and engaged atmosphere. — Listening attentively as Anna, our workshop facilitator, instructs us on what to do.

People wearing colorful headwraps focus on painting canvases at a table, conveying concentration and creativity in a vibrant art class setting. — Ellie wearing one of my demi headwrap designs while contemplating her colour palette.

People sitting at tables in a cozy studio, focused on painting colorful canvases. The atmosphere is creative and relaxed, with a supportive vibe. — Totally immersed in creating while my daughter spins some rad tunes in the background.

Two individuals engaged in painting at a workshop, both wearing colorful headwraps. A canvas with a yellow section is in focus. The atmosphere is creative and focused. — Queens wearing headwraps from my tie-dye and cotton collections.

Anna is a digital artist and the founder of Bomoko Women Events. She was also our workshop facilitator. These are a few of her original digital prints that were on display at the event. Anna can be contacted on IG (see link) for purchases.

A woman in a wheelchair smiles, holding a colorful portrait. The painting shows a face with large glasses against a pink and blue background. She wears a teal headwrap and black apron — Mighty pleased with my effort. What an uplifting afternoon!

Two women smile while holding copies of a book titled "Africa Day." One is seated in a wheelchair, wearing a colorful headscarf and glasses. The mood is joyful — Forever a lover of books, I simply had to buy a copy of Chi Mary Kalu’s children’s book called AFRICA DAY which could be purchased at the event. The author also signed my copy.

Two smiling women hold colorful portrait paintings. The art features bold sunglasses and vibrant backgrounds, creating a lively and joyful tone. — These two queens look mighty pleased with their achievements.

I hope you enjoyed reading my blog just as much as I enjoyed my first African paint and sip event.