Business for the Arts of Broward partnered with IKEA to present an Artist Encounter Series at the Sunrise store where visitors could experience live demonstrations, performances or hands on workshops. It is a program that provides local artists of different disciplines with the opportunity to engage the community and become an ambassador to help connect a wider audience with the process of creating and enjoying art. The series enhances the experience of the visitors and staff members alike. It produces an environment which connects people from different generations, backgrounds and ethnicities through the common bond of art and culture.

Business for the Arts provided me with the opportunity to participate, IKEA provided me with a white sofa to use as a canvas for the project. I had the idea to create a "Coloring Book Couch.” I outlined all the designs in black. The top of the sofa was a little less structured allowing for a little more creativity from the participants. The sofa was ready and in the course of one Sunday afternoon the sofa turned from black and white to a rainbow of vibrant color. Everyone had a blast and did a wonderful job. The sofa was so colorful and fun that IKEA kept it out on display for everyone to enjoy!