“Leo Sunset” paints calm across campus

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By Sayuri Vargas-Hernandez, Staff Writer

As the sun dropped below the horizon, the Student Community Center (SCC) Lakeside Patio came alive with color, conversation, and a calm afternoon.

On Nov. 20, Saint Leo University students gathered for “Leo Sunset”, a peaceful evening of painting hosted by the Campus Activities Board (CAB). With a golden view of the lake reflecting off, and paintbrushes in hand, students embraced a moment of creativity and connection.

The event was from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., and the environment was transformed into an open-air studio. CAB provided all the essentials, such as canvases, palettes, and brushes—while students brought their imagination. Some painted sunsets, others sketched campus scenes, and many simply let the brush lead the way. This event was made with the purpose of giving students a fun activity to do, and it was a reminder to slow down and enjoy the moment.

Some students found inspiration from Pinterest and Instagram to help them create their own paintings. (Photo was taken by Sayuri Vargas-Hernandez)

Other students got ideas from drawings, photos, or images they saw online. It helped them decide what to paint. (Photo was taken by Sayuri Vargas-Hernandez)

The timing couldn’t have been better. With finals approaching and schedules packed, “Leo Sunset” offered a much-needed break. Soft music played in the background as students chatted, laughed, and reflected with friends. The lakeside location added to the quiet, turning the event into a transmitted exhale before the semester’s final week arrives.

“The sunset over Lake Jovita was gorgeous. Painting outside with that view made the whole evening feel special,” said Miranda Galaviz, a senior majoring in Biomedical Sciences.

Many students kept their paintings as personal reminders of the evening, while others used them as gifts or hung them in their dorms. The event sparked conversations about art, wellness, and the importance of enjoying the moment.

Painting nature scenes helps many students feel calm. The colors of the sky, water, and sun make them feel at peace and connected. (Photo was taken by Sayuri Vargas–Hernandez)

A few students chose flowers for their art. It was something simple that made them smile. (Photo was taken by Sayuri Vargas-Hernandez)

During finals week, many students painted peaceful images or wrote kind words to stay calm and focused. (Photo was taken by Sayuri Vargas-Hernandez)

“Leo Sunset” is part of CAB’s ongoing commitment to student wellness and inclusive programming. By combining creativity with community, CAB continues to host events that help students remember their time at Saint Leo.

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