Paint studio owner believes all you need is art
by Nancy Vondrak
A passion for art and the desire to share that love with the community inspired a local entrepreneur to open So-So Artsy Paint and Sip Studio in Northfield Plaza.
Melinda Turner Sheppard, a former social worker and school counselor, knows firsthand the therapeutic benefits of art and wanted to create something that would bring art into peoples’ lives.
Individuals, small groups or private parties can come to So-So Artsy to create an artistic “masterpiece’’ in two hours without having any experience or owning any art supplies. Since its grand opening June 23, the studio has attracted women’s groups, moms and daughters, showers and birthday parties.
An artist-teacher guides customers in using acrylic paints on their choice of medium, including canvases, rocks, wine glasses or wood pallets. Budding artists can choose from a number of gallery designs that include landscapes, florals and animals, or they can go the freestyle route and paint an original creation.
The price of a Sip and Paint class includes canvases, tools and supplies, healthy snacks, a complimentary beverage, cups, plates and napkins. Customers also can bring their own wine, beverages and food.
Sheppard, of Bedford, was drawn to the Nordonia Hills area because her dad worked at Northfield Park for 30 years. When she learned there were no paint and sip studios here, she thought it would be the perfect location to offer an outlet where both adults and children could foster their creativity.
Sheppard has planned myriad events for the future, including a partnership with PM Home Improvement Solutions to conduct monthly Home DIY Deco works with themes like Refunk Your Junk and Sip & Paint Furniture. Also twice a month on Tuesdays, So-So Artsy will host pizza and paint parties for those with disabilities. A six-week artsy summer camp for school-aged children started in June but is still available for students to join the final two weeks. Paint, Sip and Sing on Friday nights features karaoke in addition to painting.
The first Paint and Sip Night with the Mayor is scheduled for July 20. Northfield Village Mayor Jesse Nehez will be painting, and proceeds from the event will benefit the Emergency Assistance Center of Northfield.
“People can see what its like to sit down with the mayor, talk and paint with him,” she said. “Each month we’ll do this as a charity event to benefit a different organization.”
The studio is located at 10333 Northfield Rd., No.148, in Northfield Village. Call 330-212-0385 or visit sosoartsy.com for more information.