Building Community Through Art

A mosaic is a collection of many pieces that together make something strong and beautiful.  The same is true for the Millbrae Arts Association.

For over 30 years, the Millbrae Arts Association has provided regular events to promote art education for members and to enhance the artistic base in the community. Ranging from professional painters to amateur hobbyists to weekend dabblers, the group consists of about 30 members.

The fun partly comes from the mix, and the ability to help each other grow.  "If someone needs a critique, we all help each other with constructive criticism," Sherry Hahn Vockel, president of the art association, said.

But beyond the helpful art advice, the association is also a group of close friends with similar interests.

"It's an exceptional group. I've been to others, but I love to stay with Millbrae because the people are wonderful, kind and welcoming. The camaraderie is the most important thing," Vockel said. 

Members of the arts association often attend a weekly painting group at the Community Center. "It's a social thing," Vockel said. "Anyone is welcome to come."

Group members enjoy more than just socializing at demonstrations held every two months. Sessions generally last two hours and are a great chance for professionals and amateurs alike to see an artist in action sharing their expertise and fielding questions from the audience.

"I love coming to the demos. I always learn something even if it's not my medium," said 7-year-member Carrie Drilling.

Floy Zittin, a local watercolor painter, was the featured artist on September 13th. She demonstrated her technique of painting foliage, where she primes canvas with gesso to create texture. "I love the texture patterns which simulate foliage and, at the same time, I like the ability to lift out areas where I want to add a bird subject," Zittin said.

"It is a process that she developed on her own that allows her to come up with really cool paintings," Vockel said about Zittin's technique. 

The audience was appreciative, and eager to try some of the new tips on their own.

"I'm going to try this out tomorrow," said Franco Franchini.
 
Zittin enjoys teaching art through demonstration. "I learn so much by having to explain what I am doing and by having to work under pressure," she said.

With weekly painting classes and bi-monthly demonstrations, anyone can quickly develop their creative side. Done among a group of easy-going friends, it is a fun way to make it possible for anyone to become an artist.

"Sometimes people feel like the art field is full of only special people, but that's not true," Vockel said. "It really is 50 percent hard work, which anyone can do, and 50 percent technical ability, which you can learn."

To learn more visit the Millbrae Arts Association website. 

The drop-in painting group meets every Thursday from 1-4pm in Room F of the Millbrae Community Center, at 477 Lincoln Circle. 

The next demonstration will be held on November 8th, from 1:00pm-3:00pm at the Community Center, featuring Jackie DiCello, a local pastel artist.