Every month, Sonoma State students meet at the Wine Spectator patio for a free, fun, and easy way to meet with friends and decompress after a day’s worth of classes. With brushes, paints, and a blank canvas, students are encouraged to paint whatever their hearts desire
in a collaborative and social environment. Moreover, a bar provides complimentary drinks for attendees who are 21+ with a valid ID.

“We have a bar which we haven’t done in a while – because it’s ‘Paint and Sip,’ people think it’s alcohol, but usually it’s Panera, juices, or tea,” explains Gia Franklin-Willis, an Event Director for Associated Students Productions. “Not every Paint and Sip has alcohol, but every Paint and Sip has a beverage.”

Paint and Sips have been a popular event at SSU for three years now, expanding from being held once every semester to once a month. The event’s consistent scheduling has been part of what has allowed it not only to continue, but to grow in popularity as well.

“Paint and Sips are one of the most popular events that we’ve had because it’s been going on for so long,” said Franklin-Willis. “People already know about it and are expecting to have it once or twice a month,”

The lowkey and social environment of Paint and Sip has provided students with a place to relax and express themselves, especially in the midst of the stresses of school.

This sentiment is echoed by Asad “AJ” Franklin, an ASP Director who facilitates the Paint and Sips events and has participated in a few himself. “I’ve attended two Paint and Sips, and what I really like about Paint and Sip is that there’s nothing to do to prepare,” AJ said.” I
would put it in my calendar and just tell myself if I can make it, I can make it. If I can’t, I can’t.”

Students who attended the Paint and Sips held this past Thursday shared similar sentiments, including Mia Villalobos, a recent transfer to SSU, who found the event therapeutic.

“It’s my first semester here, so this is one of the first events I’ve attended,” said Villalobos. “I do find art therapeutic, and I think the
scenery, the area, and the music is also therapeutic.” With the chaos of university life, as well as the stress of current events, events like Paint and Sip play an incredibly important role in university life. They allow students a moment to forget the stresses of daily life and opportunities to come as they are, socialize with others, and find acceptance in their community.”

“No matter if I have my school bag on me or what I’m wearing… for Paint and Sip, the vibes are very communal and welcoming,” said AJ. “Everybody is just in their happy little world doing their own thing. You end up bonding with the other people at your table and get inspired by what other people are already painting.”