Celebrating Creativity and Connection Through Art

By Jennifer Russo

I was recently looking for something to do on a Monday night and happened to come across an event at the Bellingham Library that sparked my interest. It was called “Pass the Painting,” an opportunity for local adults to meet and come together to collaborate in a uniquely artistic way. 

Artists were eager to add their own unique touches to each painting.

The concept is simple, but powerful. Each artist begins with a blank canvas and a set of watercolor paints. They can paint anything they want on their canvas for exactly ten minutes, then must pass their work on to the person to their left. That artist then adds their own touches based on what inspired them. The canvas travels full circle until everyone has their original piece of art that has been transformed by everyone who contributed.

“Events like this help the community, because they are educational and creative, as well as being a social outlet,” says Cecily Christensen, Reference Librarian and the event’s organizer.

“While this is a free event, donations are accepted. The donations go to the Friends of the Library, and funds are used to purchase materials for events like this and other types of programs, like special speakers covering many topics, author presentations, and a myriad of children’s programs, including our Summer Reading Program.”

What began as an individual vision quickly evolved into a collaborative masterpiece for everyone. I started with a sunset over some purple and blue waves, and by the time the painting returned to me, it had a shore with a beach umbrella, some shells, a boat, and a kite. One painting began with some grass and developed into a scene with a tree and a tree swing, flowers, and a beautiful sky. Another was more abstract, starting with a flame and ending with other elements such as a water drop, a feather, a geometric design, and some cool octopus’ legs. 

Interestingly enough, more than half the paintings did show a summer scene. Cecily shares that when they did the event back in the fall, there was a lot of colorful foliage. It goes to show we are inspired by our surroundings every day.

The end result was a collection of fun, colorful and one-of-a-kind works, not to mention the social connection!

Like in life, we may imagine something a certain way, but others add their perspectives. Shared experiences are almost always richer and more beautiful, and whether seasoned painters or first-time dabblers, attendees walked away with more than just a finished piece – they left with inspiration and connection with new people in the community. 

“People should join the next event, once it is scheduled, because they are a great time! They’re free-of-charge and a wonderful way to meet new people in the community while doing a fun activity,” says Cecily. “This summer, we also have Summer Reading Bingo for adults, and the Friends of the Library are funding a grand prize. The winner will be drawn at the end of the summer.” 

Look for more upcoming events at the Bellingham Library here: https://www.bellinghamma.org/792/Library-Event-Calendar