Drink + Draws

What is the Drink + Draw ...and the Dry Drink + Draw?

Whether an instructor lead session, freestyle, prompt driven, or accompanied by video games, the Drink + Draw always seeks to be inclusive and welcoming!

Over the years, we’ve seen how art and leaning into a casual gaming environment has benefitted the mental health of our attendees, and how it’s provided an outlet of expression for many.

Starting in 2023, we’ve been able to expand the Drink + Draws into the DRY Drink + Draws. This has been an extremely rewarding experience and has made it possible to offer the same sense of community, the passion for art and gaming, and encouraging environment… all without the pressures of alcohol… and create moments of love and inspiration for younger generations.

Frequently, families and young adults under the age of 21 attend the Dry Drink + Draw and mention how much they love feeling like they finally have a place to meet other artists and not feel judged. 💓 They truly get excited when the event is coming up, so they can see old friends, or possibly make new ones, and share the creations they’ve made in between.

Hosts & Locations

We think finding people who truly care about others, often end up becoming the best leaders/hosts of communities and their events. We try to identify caring individuals that have an artistic background and want to share their craft while connecting people.

Locations are chosen and put through a similar scrutiny. We like to make sure the owners/culture of the establishment is not just welcoming the community as customers, but share in the vision of welcoming and connecting artists.

Our Mission

We hope to continue the Drink + Draw in all forms, and continue to create a welcoming and loving hub of creativity for artists and art lovers here in Jacksonville.

Testimonials

Chill vibe with some chill boba tea 😁

synclaire_illustrations
even though i was too shy to talk to anyone, i enjoyed the vibe and just enjoyed being in the same space as other artists 🫶🏼

blynnky
It’s a wonderful and peaceful event where you can meet other artist in the community, share your art, learn a new skill from a fellow artist,game and learn about a new chill venue. Thank you again for having the drink and draw events 😊 and keep being awesome.

chibijulie1
Its a awesome event to freely express our passion 🎨🖼🖌

jeungheejin_jincrafts

Free Community Events

Years Supporting Artists

Drawings Made

Drink + Draw Origin Story

How it started

The GAAM Drink + Draws started around 2018, as a spin-off of the GAAM Show, a gaming themed charity art show that involved multiple national & international artists, gaming companies, and local artists.

The gatherings were inspired by what it was like for the GAAM Team behind the scenes…artists getting together, creating together…and forming friendships and bonds out of the comfort and acceptance.

The Drink + Draws truly grew out of a need to have a focused and welcoming environment for artists of all skill levels. There was a need for a place for those that had an affinity towards gaming and nerd culture to have opportunities to socialize and build community over drinks (alcoholic, and non-alcoholic at the DRY Drink +Draws) while creating art and expressing themselves.

Support the Drink + Draws

FAQ

What’s your goal?

– To raise enough funding to keep creating these free meetups; pay for supplies, giveaways and compensate the volunteers involved

What costs does the Drink + Draw have?

Computers, software, table top signs, printing, giveaways, prizes for competitions, art supplies, special signs for artists, and feeding the volunteers who sacrifice their time (and frequently, their own goods) to make these events happen.

What is the “Do Good” part of the Drink + Draw?

– Creating an inclusive, supportive environment for artists of all ages and skill levels.

How can i get involved in being a hosting venue for the Drink + Draws?

– We love finding small businesses and local spaces to support with the Drink + Draws. The main thing would be to have enough space to accommodate (these typically run 40+ attendees for a couple hours), and having a true appreciation of the arts and artists.

If you’re interested, please let us know here!

What is there to do for attendees?

– Drink…or Draw 😄. There’s typically also a raffle, and an art competition where artists can have their creations from the event used in an online art competition.

What is the Drink + Draw ...and the Dry Drink + Draw?

Hosts & Locations