Live painting, or event painting, appears trendy because of its popularity on social media, but artists have been finding ways to capture important moments in images for centuries (I know because I had to memorize a zillion of those images while studying for my art history degree!).

Live painting happens when an artist captures a special moment, like a wedding, retirement party, birthday or gala in an original painting during the actual event.

Today, we can think of live painting as both visual and performance art because the artist creates a painting during an event for the entertainment of guests, as well as provides the couple or client with an heirloom-quality painting to be passed down through generations.

When you decide on a live painting at your special event, the first thing we’ll do is schedule a consultation to discuss your vision for the painting. These don’t have to take long; usually about a half hour is sufficient. This way, on the day of the event I already know your vision and what important elements, people, colors, etc. you’d like in your painting, and I’ll be ready to capture that special moment while I paint during the entire reception. Your guests are welcome to spend time at my easel to see the process unfold, ask questions, and chat!

I use oil paints in an impressionist, “painterly” style, so that the brush strokes are visible and gestural. I find this loose approach to be optimal for capturing the energy and essence of a scene. Each brush stroke is laid down with intention drawn right from the moment you want captured. The end result is a lively, unique, and colorful depiction of your special day.

I chose the name “Lavender & Linseed” for my business because I use nontoxic lavender spike oil instead of mineral spirits, which can release harmful fumes, in my painting practice. My grandmother also had an affinity for lavender, so naming my business was a meaningful way to honor her memory. Linseed oil is what's used in oil paint that gives it that signature buttery shimmer. And that's how "Lavender & Linseed" came to be!

I paint non-toxic. Many oil painting materials contain toxic elements such as cadmium and turpentine that are harmful to the environment and to those who use them or are around them. I use only non-toxic materials in my work, which means there will only be non-toxic materials at your special event.

A fine art degree with a concentration in painting, as well as decades of painting practice, provide a vast repertoire and years of academic training to draw from.

An active teaching artist practice. I currently teach art and I love to share my creative process, explain the technical aspects of art, and demystify painting, all in-person. I am lucky to guide my students toward making their own creative visions come to life on a daily basis. Your guests can bring on their questions!

I offer three different canvas sizes for your special event. The smallest is 18” x 24” and comes with an investment of $1000. The next size option is 20” x 30” and comes with an investment of $1500. The largest size option is 24” x 36” and comes with an investment of $2000.

Each of these options comes with 5+ hours of guaranteed painting before, during and after your special event on a gallery-wrapped canvas using museum-quality materials. A 50% down payment secures your date!

While live painting is considered a luxury add-on, I do my best to keep my prices accessible for all couples who envision adding a creative and unique touch to their wedding day.

I’ll need 4’ x 6’ feet of space for my painting setup, as well as access to an outlet for my light. I’ll also need access to the event space beforehand so I can begin painting the setting, which is sure to capture the interest of your guests as they arrive.

My studio is located in the pristine rolling hills of central Pennsylvania, and I am more than happy to travel to your special event!

I guarantee 5+ hours of painting on the day of the event, as well as studio touch ups. If your painting is not complete by the end of your event, it will be completed in my home studio and delivered to you within two weeks! (Longer delivery time may apply for out-of-town events due to drying and shipping).