ArtJamz: An Outlet to Unleash Your Inner Artist

Michael Clements, the man behind the genius of ArtJamz and Genki Media LLC

ArtJamz registered its marketing motto “Unleash Your Inner Artist”, as it should because quite frankly, I don’t know of another place or environment which allows such a state to occur. Well, at least for me. Because I’m not talented in the way that some are, you know, the real artists who have to be in some cloud of inspiration or deep in a world of private muses or high on well.. let’s just say life.  At any rate, for those of of us who think two hours with a blank canvas, vast amounts of acrylic paints, a slew of different size brushes is more of a threat than an opportunity, the idea of ArtJamz can be sort of intimidating.

walls of messages

a painting done by Tiffany Richardson's father

I’ve done it a few times previously since Michael Clements, brains behind the brushes, began unleashing the DMV’s inner artists and each time, I go in with trepidation and walk out smiling, proud of the work (albeit elementary school level) I’ve done and pleased with the overall experience. Because that’s just what ArtJamz hands to you on a plastic palate. An experience. Like with life, it’s all what you make of it.

Larry Hackett and Peter Phung of Atyer Service, Inc. and All Charities Count work on their paintings. Peter in the Redskins shirt told me he has never painted before....amazing work!~

Jason Kampf working on his painting (which he changed drastically four times)

This past Sunday, friends, cancer patients, doctors, supporters and even some strangers came to paint for the second year in a row for the Chris4Life Colon Cancer ArtJamz painting sessions. For $35, each artist received an easel, unlimited paints, a canvas and complimentary assistance from the expert staff, including Michael Clements himself, along with wine, bubbles, beer and food.

The Dupont Circle studio’s walls are covered in messages, signs, and signatures, paying homage to ArtJamz and all who come to experience a moment in the vibrant space. The continuous jams playing out of the speakers energizes painters and there is an aura of fun, strangers helping strangers, complimenting work, asking for assistance, giving guidance, and for those who want to be left alone to their own devices, a quiet respect is given.  But most want to interact, while being drawn into his or her creation, whatever iteration of it at the time.  For me, ArtJamz defines: Take me to a happy place.

painters at work

my finished product, thanks to Michael Clements, who helped me "see" the potential

The finished paintings from both sessions will be added to the silent auction during the 2nd Annual Blue Hope Bash on October 25th at the Park Hyatt Washington DC, which by the way, is about sold out.

Check out ArtJamz and the Blue Hope Bash.

this painting was done by a REAL artist, can you tell?

leaving my initials on the ArtJamz wall

this artist used paint markers, a fun discovery