Art for the Soul : Dad and Me Painting Sessions

But minus the wine, of course, what would you think about creating such an environment for fathers and their children to express their creativity on the canvas? If you’re interested in trying a Father’s Day treat that’s a little more unconventional but one that would allow you to incorporate the children in a constructive and creative way, you just might be interested in Annalise Dos Ramos’ Dad and Me sessions. More often than not an affair for mothers and their children, Annalise, a painter by profession, began the Dad and Me sessions last year, when it occurred to her that expanding the creative channel to fathers would be a positive thing, to allow the guys to express what she refers to as a “different side” of themselves.

Annalise says that although one or two of the dads would, in fact, have a bit of an artistic flair, having done art in school or on their own for leisure, the painting sessions usually knock them out of their comfort zone. “The majority come claiming that they can’t paint, but they follow along step by step, and they end up finding it quite easy,” explained Annalise. “The mothers always pop in and paint with the children, but for the fathers, it takes them a little out of their element.” With all sorts of studies on the health benefits of painting, it’s no secret that these events are more than just smearing and mixing colours onto a canvas. Painting has been shown to help relieve stress, boost problemsolving and motor skills, encourage emotional maturity and empathy as well as to strengthen memory, advantages that both parents and children alike can profit from.

While having to sit still for an hour at a restaurant just might be the very thing that drives your children (and you) to their limits, having them paint gives them something enjoyable while stimulating their focus. In other words, quiet, happy and stimulated children.

To add to the fun, Annalise’s paintings are, in fact, joint works of art. “Each person gets a canvas,” she explained.

“When you put them together, the painting is complete; it’s something that they can get framed and hang on the wall afterward.” But, Annalise tells WMN, her own art “is very different to what I give in my sessions. I use acrylic and oil, with a knife and my finger to paint; I don’t paint with brushes,” she explains.

“My textures are chunky with deep and rich colours.” A member of the Trinidad Art Society, Annalise exhibits annually at the organisation’s headquarters in Federation Park.

With this year’s underwater theme, Annalise’s 2017 session for Dads and their children should be a hit, for both parties alike.

This year’s “Dad and Me” session will be held on Saturday, June 24 from 11am to 12pm. Spots are still available and gift certificates are on sale. For booking and further information on Annalise Dos Ramos’ painting events, check “Art for the Soul” on Facebook or contact artforthesoultt2016@ gmail.com. For Dos Ramos’ own work, check out the “Art By Annalise Dos Ramos” Facebook page.