Get into the holiday spirit by creating a beautiful winter snow scene on Thursday, Dec 5, at the Corks & Canvases Painting Party at the Albany Museum of Art.

“The scene we will paint will be in the style of Thomas Kinkade, who was known for his popular realistic, pastoral, and idyllic subjects,” Director of Education and Public Programming Annie Vanoteghem said. “We will use a palette of pastels that will capture the natural light of a winter landscape and the warm glow of the holiday season.”

The two-hour painting party starts at 5:30 pm. Participants will enjoy wine, snacks, background music, and conversation as Vanoteghem leads them step-by-step through the creative process.

“These last few weeks before Christmas can be hectic,” Vanoteghem said. “You can slow down, get away from all the noise and pressure, and bring your inner creativity to the canvas with friends. The painting party is for all skill levels, from novice to expert. Everyone will go home with a painting they will be proud to display. You may even want to give your painting to someone as a holiday gift.”

The Albany Museum of Art provides all the needed materials, including the canvas. The registration fee is $30 for AMA donors and $35 for non-donors.

The online registration link may be found at www.albanymuseum.com/ama_programs/corks-and-canvases/.

“Registration is underway now,” Vanoteghem said. “These painting parties are bi-monthly, and they usually sell out early, so don’t wait too long to sign up.”