About ArtJamz

In June 2010, after a late-night session of painting, drinking, and generally rousting about with a group of friends, magazine editor Michael M. Clements found himself pondering an unshakeable question: “Wouldn’t it be great if we could do this at a bar?” The seeds of ArtJamz sprouted almost immediately into a traveling paint party, where the caterers brought not only beer and wine but also all-you-can-paint palettes, for-sale blank canvases, and invaluable artistic expertise. In the years since that fateful, paint-spattered night, ArtJamz has become a citywide phenomenon, organizing collaborative events with the local museums, galleries and restaurants, finally realizing the founding fathers’ vision of a tie-dyed capitol building.

Although these creative enablers still operate pop-up events at galleries and retail venues across D.C., Virginia, and Maryland, the permanent studios in Dupont Circle and Crystal City have an open-house policy to enable paint parties every week. Freestyle paint sessions and classes are offered, charging separately for studio time, canvas, and drinks. Day hours keep artists aged 5–18 in mind, whereas nightly sessions feature beer, wine, and creative cocktails for the 21+ set. More than 20 distinct colors await inspired brushes, and the walls of the cozy venues are fair game for a fresh coat. A trained staff is always on hand to offer advice if needed or requested, and to make sure nobody loses an ear.