Last Sunday was the Halloween edition of Dr. Sketchy’s Anti-Art School featuring our very own Penny and Elle with the lovely Lavender Menace as zombie pin-ups devouring their helpless victim, Sarkany.  Being a fan of both zombies and pin-ups, I was looking forward to an evening of sketching and fun.

Dr. Sketchy’s provides a laid back atmosphere catering to artists of all skill levels.  There’s no stress, no pressure, just fun.  Drinking is allowed at Sketchy’s (this is even more exciting when you realize Kanawha Players is housed in an old church, increasing that feeling of rebellion I think).  I have yet to drink at these events, but it’s nice to have the option.  Just bring your own alcohol and a designated driver please.

Each session holds two contests where the winners are chosen by the models.  Prizes include key chains, board games, gift certificates to local businesses, and much more.  The contests provide an extra challenge and another aspect of fun.

I arrived a little before 7 pm hoping to secure a good view for my elementary drawing skills.  This session was the first held on the main stage, so I wasn’t sure what seating would be like as I’m used to the basement.  I secured my seat, grabbed a plate of snackies, and set out my art supplies in preparation.   Like every other session, I knew this would be a wonderful time.

The stage was set for a night of horror.  Fabric-covered furniture, a backdrop adorned with spiders, and a cameo appearance by Penny and Elle’s voodoo dolls created a scene straight from a haunted house, the perfect canvas for the night’s artwork.

Our models looked great in their zombie makeup. 

“It took two hours to transform us; Elle’s was inspired by the original Dawn of the Dead,” Penny told me. “We used a mix of watercolor body paints and alcohol paints that don’t transfer to clothing like grease paint.”

Penny’s makeup was done by Adam Edwards while Elle did her own; Sarkany used her skills for Lavender’s makeup, all together creating a cohesive look (Sarkany prepared her own makeup and effects while the zombies started the show).  Props included a disembodied head Edwards made, a bloody heart, and some intestines spilling out of Sarkany (which the model made herself).  They went all out to create some sexy zombie action and they didn’t disappoint.

If you missed Sunday’s Halloween extravaganza, you can catch a session with Penny, Elle, Sarkany and Suzy Sketchman on October 22 when Sketchy’s will be at Charcon–cost is $5 for Charcon pass and $5 to draw.  There will also be a free mini-session at the ArtMares reception on October 28 beginning at 6 pm where Penny, Elle and local rock star Pepper Fandango will appear as classic monsters of horror.  The reception lasts until 10 pm but the models will be gone by 9 so get there early and get your sketch on!

Dr. Sketchy’s Anti-Art School is held on the third Sunday of each month at Kanawha Players.  Admission is only $8 in advance, $10 at the door.  Don’t miss next month’s session when Pepper Fandango returns to show us her fan dance!

*  Sketchy’s photography provided by Adam Edwards