Our Mission
To create a welcoming and loving hub of creativity for artists and art lovers here in Jacksonville.
To create a welcoming and loving hub of creativity for artists and art lovers here in Jacksonville.
Our “Drink + Draw” events are where art, gaming, and creativity collide in an inclusive, welcoming environment. Whether it’s an instructor-led session, freestyle sketching, prompt-driven challenges, or drawing alongside video games, every event is designed to inspire connection and creativity.
Over the years, we’ve seen firsthand how blending art with a relaxed gaming atmosphere has uplifted mental health, provided a meaningful outlet for self-expression, and fostered lasting friendships among our attendees.
In 2023, we proudly expanded our offerings to include “Dry Drink + Draw” events. These alcohol-free gatherings create the same sense of community and passion for art and gaming while providing a safe, pressure-free space for younger audiences and families.
These events have become a haven for teens, young adults, and families who love connecting with other artists in a judgment-free space. Many attendees eagerly anticipate the opportunity to reconnect with friends, share their creations, and be inspired by others in this vibrant, supportive setting.
Whether you’re an artist, gamer, or creative enthusiast, “Drink + Draw” and “Dry Drink + Draw” events are your chance to connect, create, and be part of a community that celebrates art and inclusivity.
We believe the best leaders and hosts are those who genuinely care about others. That’s why we seek out passionate individuals with artistic backgrounds who are eager to share their craft while fostering meaningful connections.
Our event locations are chosen with the same care. We partner with establishments that not only welcome the community but also share our vision of creating inclusive spaces where artists and creatives can connect and thrive.
The operational goal is to raise enough funding to keep creating these free meetups; pay for supplies, afford giveaways, and compensate the volunteers involved.
The secondary goal is to publish 100 copies of a book/magazine! If we can raise $4800, we will feature artwork from the participants of the meetups and make it available at locations where the meetups have been held.
(We have sponsorship opportunities for that goal if you’re interested!)
If we are able to reach our stretch goal of $10000, we will host a 2 day art festival, dedicated and featuring many artists from the Drink + Draws, as well as other artists from Jacksonville.
This will …
Born in 2018 as a spin-off of the GAAM Show—a gaming-themed charity art show featuring national and international artists, gaming companies, and local creatives—the GAAM Drink + Draws were inspired by the behind-the-scenes camaraderie of the GAAM team: artists coming together, creating, and forming lasting friendships.
These events were created to provide a welcoming, focused space for artists of all skill levels, especially those passionate about gaming and nerd culture. Whether at our traditional Drink + Draws or alcohol-free DRY Drink + Draws, attendees can connect, socialize, and build community while expressing themselves through art.
Sustain Free Meetups: Raise funds to cover supplies, giveaways, and volunteer support to keep these creative gatherings free.
Published Book/Magazine: With $4,800, we’ll feature local artists’ work from our meetups in 100 copies of a book/magazine, available at meetup venues. Sponsorships are available!
Stretch Goal – Art Festival: If we reach $10,000, we’ll host a 2-day Drink + Draw Art Festival, showcasing local talent, supporting young artists, and generating opportunities for the Jacksonville creative community.
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.
– Creating an inclusive, supportive environment for artists of all ages and skill levels.
– 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!
– 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.
