Paint Nite

You all probably know by now that my favorite part of blogging is the free stuff.  What? It’s not the ability to write and create a depository of my deepest creative ramblings? Nah, it’s the free stuff.

I was recently offered the chance to try out Paint Nite for free. I had heard of these events that have seemed to gain more popularity recently, and was intrigued.  But I was also skeptical.

The idea behind it is kind of an odd one to me.  Not the whole “drink and eat while you do something” thing.  That I can always get behind.  But the whole concept is that participants are taught to paint a particular artwork.  You all paint the same thing.  It seemed creatively stifling.  Surely I could save money, buy some canvasses, paints, a bottle of moscato (stop laughing at me, I only like wines that taste like juice) and get the party started in the comfort of my own home.  But then I remembered that pile of blank canvasses that have been sitting on my shelf since July.  And those paints I only opened to paint rocks.  Clearly, I’m lacking that certain OOMPH or know-how to create my own masterpieces.

So, when offered this chance, I perused the upcoming Paint Nite offerings.  These events are held at bars around the city and feature different artists.  I chose which event I would attend based on the painting I most wanted to…I guess…copy. And of course, I made my partner in crime/adventures/life (Adam) come with me.

This Paint Nite was held downstairs at Back Bay Social Club, which I had actually never been to.

The price of the event – $45 – includes your supplies (a canvas, paints, brushes, apron) and instruction.  The drinks are not included, but are encouraged.  Paint Nite’s tagline is “Drink Creatively”. Who am I to argue?

We got there a little early, got our beverages and settled  in.  On a side note, Adam was literally the only man there and would like to recommend this for any single dudes.

The original painting was out and, I’ll be honest, I was intimidated.

So pretty, right? The artist, Kristina (more of her work can be found here) was going to teach us how to recreate this but I had my doubts.  Sure, I’m crafty, I doodle, and I can slap some paint on rocks or shoes but this was kicking it up a notch.

Here’s how the process went down:

Not bad, eh???

I was really impressed by how Kristina was able to break down this painting into steps that anyone/everyone could manage.  It wasn’t so much about copying someone’s work but more about learning some really basic techniques and putting your own spin on things.  It was an artistic confidence builder. It’s a fantastic feeling to go from “Oh, I could never do that” to “HEYOO I DID THAT”.

Want to try Paint Nite for yourself? Enter the code “paintNparty” at checkout for 15% off!

Thanks to Paint Nite for this opportunity!