As a Tucson creative center, This n’ That Creative Studio transitioned to a nonprofit organization, and they are hosting their first official fundraiser (The Color Run) in honor of the 1st year anniversary of Rick Perez’s passing. Rick was a painting contractor who left his mark all over Tucson, from our well-known red and white checkered airport water tower, to Davis Monthan Air Force Space fighter hangars, to Old Tucson studios, and almost every Tucson Unified School District building. Rick was a master of his craft. This n’ That will be raising money to rename their paint splatter room to: “Rick’s Be Bad Paint Lab” and using some of the proceeds to give summer camp scholarships to underserved kids.
The Color Run will be hosted on Saturday, March 22nd from 12 to 5 pm. It will take place at 673 S. Plumer Avenue. There will be food, music, raffles, craft stations, drinks, and a run/walk around the parameters of the UA Drachman Track and Field stadium. As participants make their way to the finish, colored powder will be tossed at them as a fun way of encouraging them as they make their way to the finish line. People of all ages will come together to honor this beloved paint contractor.
This n’ That Creative Studio’s owner, Ria Patino, says “This event is near and dear to my heart. As Rick’s daughter, my hope is that the work of a painter can be appreciated in all forms, not just your traditional canvases or murals but the attention and detail that goes into painting a building or structure can be appreciated by all for many years to come.” She also is hoping to allow a creative outlet for kids and teenagers beyond summer camps or art classes by offering specialized workshops and events specific to those age groups. From painting to sewing to science experiments, This n’ That offers a creative outlet for all age groups.
The color run is not the only big event coming up, the studio also received grant funding from the Downtown Tucson Partnership and will be hosting its first Creative Futures Workshop, a series that will teach youth and teens how to take a craft and turn it into a business. Entrepreneurial skills will be the focus of this ongoing series. Ria says, “All kids should be encouraged to have a creative outlet. The confidence that comes from making something with your own hands is something that every child should experience. The work we are doing is important because we are able to reach children and youth who may not otherwise have the opportunity, resources, or tools to dabble into their inner artist. Our studio allows kids from all different backgrounds to express their inner individuality, which is why I love what I do.”
If you’re interested in participating in the run, visit https://thisnthatcreativestudio.com/product/ricks-be-bad-color-run/ or stop by the sign-up station at the event.
