For someone like myself who enjoys painting and drawing but is preoccupied with my studies, it can be extremely cathartic to temporarily place myself in an artistic environment shared by others with similarly busy schedules and a love for art. I found that social art events are perfect for occasionally flexing my creative muscles without extreme commitment. Most social art organizations provide art sessions with necessary materials like paint and canvases and often have an instructor to oversee and provide help when needed. Here are some examples of social art events that are great for one-time creative sessions:

1. Pottery painting

Pottery painting events are great because you can bring home a customized mug, plate, or other ceramic tableware to use or gift to someone else. These events are great for a relaxing, creative session with your friends.

2. Social painting parties

Recently, the social painting phenomenon has been on the rise. If you search for "social painting events" online, you'll find a plethora of Groupons and deals for painting parties with various social painting companies. Basically what a social painting party is a "party" (often with drinks) in which an instructor teaches a group of adults how to paint an image. They're great events for socializing and drinking while making something aesthetically pleasing.

3. Figure drawing sessions

For the more experienced artist, open figure drawing sessions (often called "life drawing sessions") are a great way to wind down and draw while meeting other artists in your area. Figure drawing sessions are often open sessions with a nude model who poses at intervals, allowing attendees to draw the human body from varying angles. Figure drawing may be a little more difficult, but the experience is extremely rewarding.