Yesterday evening, 35 women from the Junior League of Columbia came together for an evening of fun, learning and creativity at an event known as Sips & Strokes at Saluda’s. The event, put together by the JLC’S Membership Recognition and Satisfaction Committee, included an artistic lesson from Columbia’s Wine & Design, while enjoying wine, yummy chef-selected appetizers and friendship at Saluda’s Restaurant in 5 points. 
As someone that lacks talent in the artistic area, I was a little nervous at first to paint my 16 x 20 canvas amongst my peers. However, by the end of the event and much to my surprise, I not only learned that wine does NOT, in fact, make you a better artist, but instead, you do not have to be a Picasso to have fun with your girlfriends and learn a few new artistic talents.
The evening began with wine and friendship as our art teachers from Columbia’s Wine and Design unveiled the masterpiece that we would be creating that night - a red and blue crab-themed painting.
At first, the painting looked a little complicated, but as she began the lesson, it became clearer that it was a little bit simpler than it looked. Step-by-step, we all followed her instruction, and by the end of the evening, the room was filled with 35 unique versions of the painting.
As the evening came to a close, we enjoyed delicious hor d'ouevres prepared by the chefs at Saluda’s and admired each other’s artwork. All in all, a great evening! Not only did I leave with a new painting to hang in my home, but with a few more friendships and some new artistic abilities. I think I can say I can successfully mix and shade paints now!
