Felician University held a Paint ‘N’ Sip session on February 14 in the Goya Dining Hall on the Lodi campus of Felician University as part of its Older is Better program for individuals 55 and older.

The fledging artists were guided by Felician Professor of Graphic Design Melissa MacAlpin, whose background is in Fine Studio Art. “Anytime I get a chance to not be on the computer and can get into messy but beautiful art making, I love it,” said MacAlpin who also volunteers doing Paint n Sips for the Wallington PTA and Public Library.

The painting part was the real thing with MacAlpin passing out small canvasses, paint, and multiple brushes. Professor MacAlpin guided the seniors with an easy manner, “We’re going to paint the tree and then we’re going to go in with all the red and pink and white, and because it’s Valentine’s Day, we have to start with romance.”

Rosemarie Latrenta of Clifton said, “Whatever you make is beautiful in your eyes,” adding, “I had a wonderful time. It was very relaxing and fun.” For Angela Vitiello of Lodi, the Paint N’ Sip was more than just fun, “this drawing of the heart was therapeutic and you could express yourself, I loved it.”

As for the “sipping part,” the seniors sipped coffee and enjoyed chocolate cake. And if that doesn’t sound sophisticated enough for you, here’s what Elizabeth Smith of Clifton had to say about the experience. “I enjoyed the class. It took the pressure off, it was a matter of free expression, I feel like Andy Warhol.”