Don't Be Shy. You Can Meet New Friends at Paint and Vino.

One of the newer trends in parties is the paint and vino evening, also called paint and sip. These events are part class, part party. They can be either public or private. Public events are a great way to meet new friends, while private events are a wonderful way to celebrate life events or just be together with friends. 

Some venues will have a liquor license, and you can purchase wine or beer and snacks on-site. Other venues are strictly BYOB. Either way, you can relax over a glass of your favorite wine or beer. Enjoy your favorite snacks and treats. Let your inhibitions retreat a bit and unleash your inner artist. 

The class will be led by a professional artist who also has teaching experience. Typically, the class will copy a famous work of art, like Van Gogh’s Starry Night. The original artwork is chosen so that it’s easy for beginners to copy. You don’t need to have a lot of art experience to enjoy the class. If you can hold a paintbrush, you can paint! The whole atmosphere is supportive, friendly, and fun. Everyone jokes and laughs as they work on their paintings. 

You Bring the Wine, the Studio Brings the Paints and More

The studio will provide all the materials you need -- canvas, paints, brushes, and an easel. Be sure to dress in older clothes, as you might get a few paint splatters on them. The instructors are really good at breaking down how to choose colors and mix paints. 

They’ll also show you basic techniques to take the blobs of acrylic paint and transform them into the shapes you want for your painting. The classes are small enough that instructors can offer individual support and instruction, too. This can be a very fun way to discover (or rediscover!) a love of painting and being creative. 

At the end of the class, you’ll have a painting to take home and hang up. Because of the detailed guidance of the instructor, most people are quite happy with their final product. Yes, you can do it!

If you’re not on our newsletter, we invite you to subscribe to Senior Life to get more tips on living your best life as an older adult.