3-2-1…annnnd relax. Think of nothing but the raw ceramics in front of you, the brush in your hand, and the swirls of colourful paints poured out into neat dollops on your expectant palate. Leave the heat of the summer and the chaos of a packed schedule behind you; the next two hours are for creative escapism. The bonus? You get to keep the fruits of your labour. How tidy or functional those creations might be is totally up to you. Sounds like fun, right?
Crock A Doodle is a bright, airy, cheerful pottery painting art studio located on Old Canmore Road, with views of the Three Sisters serving as inspiration, should you need it. Mugs, cups, plates, bowls, platters, and figurines sit in abounds waiting for you to colour them with your visions. What, or whomst, did my boyfriend and I choose as our muses du jour? Why, our beloved kitties, Roger and Cosmo, of course. When we’re not actively serving as their loyal subjects, or sharing photos of them to anyone with so much as a passing interest in cats, it seems we are depicting them in all their elegance on their new favourite kibble bowls. You can, of course, “choose your adventure”, the canvas is blank and it’s your paint party; let your imagination run wild!
We had a hoot bringing our cats to life on crockery and, while most guests shared their time in companionable focus with a friend or date, I saw some fellow artists were very much enjoying some alone time, which looked just about as lovely as being absorbed in a cozy spot with a good book.
There is just something so calming, nearly meditative about painting, with the act of creation able to quiet even the busiest of minds, which is perhaps the perfect tonic after a day spent in the mountains. To that note, Crock A Doodle reminded me that it feels pretty great to sit still and focus on creating something from time to time. I can’t remember the last time I enjoyed active downtime, or the last time I was so focused on a piece of art (yes, the cat bowls ARE indeed works of art!).
Friendly staff are on hand to get you set up with your piece, paints, and anything else you might need to bring to life your masterpiece. There is an abundance of tools and colours to work with, including fun speckled options and seasonal shades. Once you have finished with your creation, you can leave it with Crock A Doodle who will glaze and kiln fire it for you within the next 48 hours, making sure its food safe and ready to serve an eye-catching gift or addition to your home.
Did the cats like their (magnificent!) bowls? Well, while Roger and Cosmo aren’t necessarily the most appreciative consumers of fine art, I think they respected the offering, especially when they were presented filled with the meaty chunks of their dinner!
Date night, friend-hangs, birthday parties, team bonding, apres hike or ski; Crock A Doodle feels good for the soul, and the community!
Visit https://crockadoodle.com/canmore/ for bookings and further information. Reservations are recommended, but drop-ins are always welcome.
