DARKE COUNTY – Bree Burk brought a burst of creativity to the Darke County Senior Center, arriving fully prepared with canvases, paints, and an encouraging spirit that immediately set the tone for a fun and engaging class. She began by introducing us to a canvas she had already prepared with a rich black background, explaining how this dark base would make the colors of the flowers stand out more vividly. Her step-by-step guidance made the process feel approachable, even for those who may not have picked up a paintbrush in years.
As we worked, Bree carefully demonstrated how to build each flower using layers of acrylic paint, showing us how to blend colors and create depth in the petals. She emphasized the importance of highlights and shading, guiding us in adding delicate touches of light to bring dimension to both the flowers and their leaves. With her instruction, each brushstroke began to transform into something lifelike, and we learned how small details could make a big difference in the overall composition.
One of the most charming aspects of the project was how the flowers came together as if they were arranged inside a painted jar at the bottom of the canvas. This added a sense of structure and storytelling to the piece, making the artwork feel complete and intentional. By the end of the session, we not only had beautiful paintings to take home but also a deeper appreciation for the techniques of highlighting and shading. It was a truly enjoyable experience that left everyone feeling inspired and proud of their creations.
The Darke County Senior Center is pleased to offer three Painting with Bree classes in May. The first offering is on Monday, May 4th 10am – noon, Bree will be teaching “Intro to Watercolors”. In this class, we will learn the delicacy of watercolors and why sometimes less is more. We will paint a mountain scene on 5 x 7 heavy cold-pressed paper. The class has a modest fee of $8 and is limited to 24 and requires those interested to RSVP & prepay ($8) by April 27th*. During this morning of beauty and whimsy, we will discover the foundations of watercolors, including the core techniques: wet-on-wet, flash washing, layering (glazing), and lifting. All materials are included. A tester sheet will be provided for practicing each technique.
On Monday May 11th 10 am – noon, Bree will lead “Intro to Acrylics,” where we will dive into the bold and punchy world of acrylics by painting a faux stained glass design on an 8 x 10 canvas. Those interested must RSVP & prepay ($8) by May 4th*. In the class we will learn the foundations of working with acrylics, including color mixing, value, and line work. We’ll also dip our toes into color theory and the importance of highlights/shadows. All materials are included, including a tester sheet for practicing each technique.
Monday, May 18th 10 am – noon, Painting with Bree focuses on “Mixed Media: watercolors & acrylics”. No prior classes are required; this is a beginner-friendly painting session! Those interested need only RSVP & prepay ($8) by May 11th*. Join in on a lighthearted morning learning and practicing basic techniques from both watercolors and acrylics to make something that looks impressive but deceptively easy! All materials are included, as well as a tester sheet for practicing techniques.
Bree Burk is the owner and operator of MindMeld Art Lab LLC. MindMeld is a guided painting and crafting company based out of Greenville and specializes in collaborating with the community’s seniors proving that art is for everyone no matter what the skill level, age physical/cognitive limitations, or background.
Those interested in attending an event are required to *RSVP for all events by signing up at the Senior Center or contacting Wally at (508) 789-3884 or Mary at (937) 423-2565. Membership is required to belong, and the fee is $2 a year.
Any class with a fee has to be prepaid at the time of registration, otherwise it will be considered void.
