A professional artist painted flowers and ceramics live in front of students at an event on Tuesday. 

The AACC Art Association invited Jared Brady, a representational artist and oil painter, to create an original piece in front of art students to give them the opportunity to learn from a professional.

“Someone like me can really help [the] students with their direction in life,” Brady, winner of nine artist awards, said. 

According to Brady, this event is the first time that he was invited to paint for students at AACC.

“I think it’s a great opportunity to … see younger artists and where they’re at in their career,” Brady said. “I hope to … [continue] helping people out with their education.”

Brady said it’s “really important” to support the next generation of “art learning.”

“It’s a very scary world and … it’s easy to judge yourself,” Brady said. “Students [should] keep an open mind.”

According to AACC Art Association President Matthew Barravi, the club organized the event to give students an “eye-opener.”

“We wanted to have students come see what other artists have done in the past and show them what skills they have and what techniques that they use,” Barravini said. “We’re always trying to give students opportunities to really improve … [their] art skills.”

People have the misconception that art doesn’t have much “life” left, according to Barravini. 

“In reality, there’s so [many] pathways you can take art,” Barravini said. “So we’d like to open those opportunities and … give people here a chance to broaden up their connections and their skills.”

Barravini said events like this help “build a community” on campus.

“It’s always good to bring like-minded people together,” Barravini said. “Those who are interested in pursuing art … it gives [them] the opportunity.”

Jade Lewis, a second-year studio arts student, said the event was a “really cool opportunity.”

“It’s really interesting [to see] different artist perspectives,” Lewis said. “I … like learning different things and different techniques.”

Second-year graphic and web design student Aaron Reckley said he attended the event because he “loves the Art Association.”

“Anything that they’re doing, I’m going to … try to show up and be there and support the event so they can get more funding,” Reckley said. 

Reckley added: “I’m a digital design person so I tend to focus on digital mediums, but it’s important to look at, like, the physical aspects of art … it’s really insightful.”

Stamaya White, a second-year visual studio arts student, said the event was “helpful” because she learned more than she expected about “the process.”  

“I did not expect to learn about academia,” White said. “A lot of scientists do art … there’s a science to art.”