Painters Unite
Free, in-person painting gatherings across San Francisco. Come paint from life, connect, and create together.
The world wants us to move faster, to trust our hands less, to look at screens instead of at each other. Painters Unite gives us two hours to do the opposite.
We gather in a real place, a garden, a museum, a square full of people, and we paint and sketch from life, together.
No pressure, no expectation of a finished piece, no one keeping score. Just the small, good feeling of making something with your hands, beside others doing the same.
Why I'm doing this
I teach watercolor around San Francisco at Sharon Art Studio and the San Francisco Botanical Garden, and have led workshops with SFMOMA and other museums. Teaching is part of how I make my living, as it should be. But Painters Unite is different.
I'm organizing it because I believe we need more opportunities to come together, connect, and create, without cost being a barrier.
This isn't a class, and I won't be teaching at the front. I'll be painting alongside you, answering questions and offering a little guidance when it's helpful. I also create original hand-drawn outlines and simple prompts to help beginners find their way in, because everyone should feel welcome, regardless of experience.
Mostly, it's simply a chance for us to make something human together, in different corners of the city.
Who it's for
This is for anyone. People who paint all the time, and people who haven't picked up a brush since they were small. People looking for company, a slower couple of hours, a reason to be out in the city, or a little breathing room during a hard stretch.
You don't need experience or a particular reason to come. Just show up, and we'll make something together.
What to expect
We gather, settle in, and start with a small creative prompt. I offer three ways to explore it, from beginner to experienced, so everyone can find their own way in.
Then we paint and sketch, alone or together, talking or quietly observing. There's time to slow down, exchange ideas, and learn from one another. No rush, no pressure to finish.
At the end, anyone who wants to can share what they've discovered. That's it. Simple, relaxed, and a little different every time.
What to bring
Bring whatever art supplies you already have, whether it's a small watercolor kit or simply a sketchbook and pencil. That's plenty to begin with. I often bring a few original hand-drawn outlines to help beginners get started, but art materials are not provided.
If you're unsure what to bring, message me and I'll suggest a few simple, inexpensive options.
Bring some water, something to sit on, and a layer or two for San Francisco's unpredictable weather. We meet in different settings, from gardens and parks to indoor spaces, so dress accordingly.
Most importantly, bring yourself.
Upcoming gatherings
Second Saturday of the month, 10 to 12.
Locations are chosen close to the day, for weather, blooms, and what's happening around the city, and shared by email.
Sat, Aug 8
Sat, Sep 12
Sat, Oct 10
Sat, Nov 14
Sat, Dec 12
FAQ
Do I need to be any good?
No. This isn't a class and there's no critique. The point is looking, not performing.
What if I've never painted?
You're exactly who this is for. I create original hand-drawn outlines and simple prompts to help beginners get started. All you need is a little curiosity.
Will I be the only beginner?
Not at all. People come with all kinds of experience. Everyone works at their own pace, and nobody has to keep up with anyone else.
What should I bring?
A sketchbook or some paper, and whatever you like to draw or paint with. I often bring a few hand-drawn outlines for those who'd like a starting point.
Is it really free?
Yes. Completely. Just sign up so I can let you know where we're meeting.
How often do you meet?
Once a month, in different corners of San Francisco. Sign up and you'll always know where we're gathering next.
Most of what we do here stays free and easy like this. For anyone who wants to take it further, I also teach small paid sessions through the year. The gathering never turns into a sales pitch, but if you're curious, ask me anytime.