(Seguin) – Seguin this week is getting a visit from an internationally renowned artist known for “transforming the way people approach furniture, color and creativity.”
Annie Sloan, creator of Chalk Paint and a celebrated artist, author and designer, will be bringing painting enthusiasts from across the country to Keepers Interiors & Furniture.
Keepers Owner Sam Ehrlich says Sloan’s visit is meaningful for Seguin, as the city is one of only two U.S. stops she is making this year for events of this kind.
He says Sloan, who invented Chalk Paint more than 35 years ago, has been his mentor in both business and color.
“She sells in about 60 countries and then about every continent,” said Ehrlich. “And so, as a world traveler, and for her to choose Seguin, of all places, to spend about 3 weeks here, painting and traveling –and taking in the Texas culture is quite a big deal both for us at keepers and for Seguin, which she’s fallen in love with.”
Sloan’s accomplishments extend beyond her international influence in decorative painting. He says she was recently recognized by the King of England for her contributions to society and her work in the world of color, receiving the distinction of Commander of the Order of the British Empire.
Ehrlich has worked with Sloan several times at her studio in Oxford, England, as well as at locations throughout the United States. Their professional relationship, he says, has developed into a lasting friendship.
Ehrlich says people are traveling from out of state, including some who are driving as much as six hours to attend the events. Interest has been strong, with both scheduled experiences this week almost full.
The two-day Joy of Chalk Paint Masterclass is scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Keepers Interiors & Furniture located at 615 N. Austin St. The class will be led by Annie Sloan UK Brand Ambassador Tristan Merriam and will include special appearances by Sloan.
The masterclass is designed for a range of skill levels, from beginners to experienced painters, and includes supplies and materials. Tickets are $425.
The public will also have an opportunity to meet Sloan during an Annie Sloan Live Demonstration, Book Signing and Q&A on Saturday, Oct. 17, from 1 to 4 p.m. The event will feature demonstrations, stories from Sloan’s career, questions from attendees and a book signing. Tickets for the event are $45.
Ehrlich encourages anyone with an interest to attend.
“She truly believes that everybody has the ability to be creative, and she teaches at that level that everyone can attain beauty through color,” said Ehrlich. “And it’s our pleasure to introduce people to color and the ability to use color through Annie Sloan.”
Tickets are available by calling Keepers Interiors & Furniture at 830-379-9995 or by visiting www.keepersinteriors.com.