It is always a good time when Joe Wos comes to the Museum (which he does twice a year when he is “in the neighborhood”). This time Joe suggested to Jessica Ruskin, our Education Director, that he try something new for his visit that had worked at the Toonseum in Pittsburgh. So Friday night we had a cartooning class paired with beer and wine tasting from two local companies. We had beer from the Lagunitas Brewing Companyand wine from Balletto Vineyards & Winery.

I was headed to the event when I realized with horror that I might actually have to draw something. I don’t even draw stick figures. When I walked into the class and saw some friendly faces, I decided that this may be just the sort of situation that could get me out of my drawing comfort zone. I was absolutely correct, I have no talent, but I tried. And more important, I had fun!

Several exercises were done in pairs—the first one had one person draw a “squiggly” line and their partner made something out of it. Then we did an exercise incorporating letters. I do not remember what it was supposed to be, but mine looked like a cross eyed rabbit.

Another exercise was to follow directions and draw an owl.

Others captured the owl quite well.

Others captured the owl quite well.

—Jean Schulz