When people think about taking a painting class, they often imagine sitting quietly in front of an easel, focused on creating the perfect landscape.
While there is certainly plenty of painting, that's rarely what people remember most.
As a Certified Ross Instructor®, I've learned that my classes are really about creating memories. The finished painting is simply something beautiful you get to take home.
Every few months at Ethan's Gallery & Studio in Olde Town Arvada, I welcome students from all walks of life. Some come with lifelong friends who are looking for a creative afternoon together. Others are mothers and daughters enjoying a day out, sisters catching up, fathers introducing their sons or daughters to painting, or couples looking for a unique weekend activity. I also have students who come on their own, eager to try something they've always wanted to do.
Our July class was a perfect example. We welcomed two father-and-daughter pairs, a couple, and several solo painters. By the end of the morning, everyone was chatting, encouraging one another, and comparing paintings. What was especially rewarding was seeing several of our returning students greet each other as they walked through the door. They had met in previous classes, and now they're becoming part of a small creative community. That wasn't something I planned, but it's become one of my favorite parts of teaching.
More Than Just a Painting Class
Finding meaningful activities can be surprisingly difficult.
Many outings revolve around eating a meal, shopping, or watching a movie. While those experiences can be enjoyable, they don't always create lasting memories.
Painting is different.
For three hours, everyone shares the same experience. There are conversations, laughter, a few happy little accidents, and plenty of encouragement along the way. Phones are set aside, distractions fade into the background, and the focus shifts to simply enjoying the creative process.
By the end of class, every student has completed a landscape painting. Even though everyone follows the same demonstration, no two paintings ever look exactly alike. Each one reflects the personality and creativity of the person who painted it.
Watching students line up their finished paintings at the end of class is one of my favorite moments. There's always a sense of accomplishment, a lot of laughter, and usually a few photos before everyone heads home with their artwork.
Why Bob Ross® Painting Is Perfect for Beginners
One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is, "I'm not artistic enough."
The truth is, most of my students have little or no painting experience.
Bob Ross developed his Wet-on-Wet Technique® so that everyday people—not just professional artists—could experience the joy of painting. The method breaks the process into simple, manageable steps that build confidence as the painting develops.
You don't need to know how to draw.
You don't need to bring supplies.
You don't need any previous experience.
You simply need to show up ready to learn.
That's one of the reasons I love teaching these classes. Watching someone go from feeling uncertain to proudly holding their finished painting never gets old.
A Creative Escape Just Minutes from Denver
Our Bob Ross® workshops are held at Ethan's Gallery & Studio in historic Olde Town Arvada, just a short drive from downtown Denver.
It's the perfect destination for a weekend outing. Before or after class, you can stroll through Olde Town, enjoy a local coffee shop or restaurant, browse the boutiques, or simply spend time together exploring one of Colorado's most charming downtown districts.
Many students tell me they appreciate having an experience that feels both relaxing and productive. Instead of simply spending a morning together, they leave with a beautiful painting, a new skill, and a memory they'll enjoy long after the paint has dried.
Looking for Fun Things to Do Near Denver?
Whether you're planning a day with your best friend, spending quality time with your mom, daughter, sister, or dad, or simply looking for a unique weekend activity, a Bob Ross® painting class offers something a little different.
And if you decide to come by yourself, don't be surprised if you leave knowing a few more people than when you arrived. That's one of the unexpected joys of our classes. We've watched first-time students become regulars, and regulars become friends.
Classes are designed specifically for beginners and are taught by Certified Ross Instructor Jen DeVore Richter. All supplies are included, and workshops are typically held on the last Saturday of each month at Ethan's Gallery & Studio in Olde Town Arvada.
If you've been searching for fun things to do near Denver, oil painting classes near Denver, or a creative way to spend time with someone you care about, we'd love to welcome you to an upcoming workshop.
Reserve Your Easel
Life moves quickly, and uninterrupted time together has become surprisingly rare. A morning spent painting isn't just about creating a landscape—it's about creating a memory.
We'd love to paint with you.