Associated Student Productions (ASP) featured its first in-person Disney Drawing Night on March 10 from 7–8 p.m. at Ballroom D., offering students of all skill levels the opportunity to learn how to draw Disney characters instructed by a former Disney artist while enjoying snacks and winning prizes. “These events offer a space for students to practice their creativity, try something new that is beginner-friendly, and de-stress. Now that we have more students on campus, it was great to put on this event in person while also still offering students the option to attend virtually on Zoom,” wrote Amanda Fitz, ASP Event Director, in an email.

Students were greeted at the door by ASP members requesting their SSU ID and green wellness clearance for admission. As students made their way into the event, they were given directions to locate seating, a snack table, and a supplies table. Cardstock paper, pencils, erasers, sharpeners, crayons, colored pencils, markers, and stickers of Disney characters were all provided by ASP. The event offered snacks such as Rice Krispy treats and Oreos cookies. Many students brought their own popcorn, skittles and Starbucks.

Rachel Frebert, a former Disney artist who guided the drawing tutorial for the night, shared her excitement towards having the ability to look up and see students fixated on their drawings in person, not just through a computer screen, “ This time around, I feel more connected to the audience. I’m able to answer questions right away without having to type and stop drawing.” 

Those who attended last semester’s virtual Disney Drawing Night event were quick to favor the in-person event,emphasizing their excitement at the ability to feel more connected to their fellow Seawolves. “There’s a big difference between sitting at home by yourself and being surrounded by your friends. I can sit with my friends and laugh at each other’s drawing skills. I’m looking forward to the next Disney Drawing Night,” said Pedro Sanchez, a fourth-year music major. The night started with a few nervous individuals unsure of their ability to keep up with the drawing tutorials, but as the event went on, students seemed to feel relieved by the drawing instructor’s easy-to-follow directions and easygoing way of teaching. “It was nice not to feel rushed and enjoy the process without feeling overwhelmed,” wrote Isabel Mello, second year communications major, in an email.

The night’s characters consisted of  Goofy, Olaf, Winnie the Pooh, Mickey Mouse, and Donald Duck. Students were more than pleased with their drawings and many were quick to snap selfies with their favorite drawing. Jennifer Moray, a second-year business major, shared her hesitation with attending Disney Drawing Night, “I don’t consider myself a very artistic person. I’m definitely stepping out of my comfort zone.” Moray mentioned she was surprised by her natural ability to sketch one of her favorite Disney characters. “Getting to draw Goofy was great. I was amazed at how effortless the process felt. I definitely did not think my drawings would turn out as great as they did,” added Moray. 

Though it had a low turnout, the event’s energy was high-spirited. Many students giggled away with their friends, looking over each other’s shoulders. Others kept their headphones in, eyes strictly on their paper or the monitor, only putting their pencil down for an Oreo break.

Those who attended were given the opportunity to enter a giveaway either by filling out a post-event survey, taking a picture of their drawing and tagging ASP on Instagram, or both for the chance to win a sketchbook and colored pencils.

 “We consider this event a success. A few students shared with us that they had a great time, they found it therapeutic and they had fun,” said Fitz.

Upcoming ASP events include the Drive-In Movie series and Sonoma Super Bowl. To learn more about these future events and more, follow @as_sonoma on Instagram or visit Associated Student Productions’ page on Engage.