Kids had a chance to learn how to paint like a real artist this weekend at The 567 Center for Renewal’s “Koolaid & Canvas” class.  Macon artist Heatherly Wakefield taught the students how to paint a holiday penguin picture on canvas using acrylic paints. One of the students, Karis Burgand, may only be six years old, but she is already passionate about art.  Her mother, Arrin Freeman, enrolled her in “Koolaid & Canvas” so Karis could further develop her artistic skills.

A student paints a penguin at the ‘Koolaid & Canvas’ class at The 567.

While learning to paint their penguins, the students learned a variety of techniques, from drawing the outline of the penguin to learning different ways to use the brush. Wakefield taught them to be creative, using not only brushes, but also paper towels and fingers as painting tools to get desired effects.

The class was fun and rewarding for student and teacher alike. “It was a really positive atmosphere,” Wakefield said. “I want it to be all encouraging because there are so many different styles—kind of let them explore.” Wakefield’s approach to teaching paid off.  According to Freeman, Karis “really enjoyed herself. Her painting is amazing.”

Instructor Heatherly Wakefield and student Karis Burgand compare paintings after the ‘Koolaid & Canvas’ class on Dec. 8.