Join us at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum for a special Paint and Sip event to commemorate the final days of our current exhibition, Syd Solomon: Concealed and Revealed. Syd Solomon was a celebrated artist and World War II Veteran who was deeply inspired by nature and human experiences. The painting for this event will be loosely based on those principles.

Further, to tact on the important role of science in Solomon’s artistry, he is credited as being the first artist to use acrylic paints! He began experimenting with polymer-based materials in the late 1940s-early 1950s. After serving in WWII, he moved to Florida where the humid climate made it difficult to work with traditional oil paints. This led him to explore synthetic polymer media with the help of chemist Guy Pascal, which were the precursors to modern acrylic paints. His innovative use of these materials allowed for faster drying times and greater layering techniques, influencing the development of contemporary acrylic painting.

In this guided painting session, we’ll work with acrylic paint to create a beautiful piece combining landscape and abstract art. No prior experience is necessary! Just bring your creativity, and we’ll provide the rest.

About the artist: Justun Dorsey, Museum Educator

Justun Dorsey is the Museum Educator at the NVMM, where he develops and leads engaging tours and programs for K-12 students, teachers, educators and beyond. Coming from a long line of military family members, he is passionate about honoring Veteran’s stories through education and creative expression.

With a lifelong background in painting, specializing in acrylics, Justun attended a visual and performing arts high school and operates a small-scale arts and craft business with his mother.