Let’s face it – taking an art class can be intimidating, especially if you’re looking to tap into a newfound burst of creativity. But what if you could make your own masterpiece while sipping on cocktails or getting your twerk on?
A&E rounded up a handful of classes right here in the Twin Cities that take the average art lesson to the next level, each with their own unique twist. Add these to the itinerary of your next night out with friends, a partner or even a DIY date with yourself!
Twerk N Paint — The Pourhouse
What better way to bring Hot Girl Summer to a close than by channeling your inner Megan Thee Stallion and Vincent van Gogh (two iconic artists of their respective crafts, of course)?
Twerk N Paint events take place once a month at The Pourhouse in Minneapolis. Attendees are given paint supplies and canvases with pre-sketched designs to work on while they socialize and drop it like it’s hot.
“It’s burning calories, it’s working the gluteus medius and maximus, it’s body positivity, it’s about people expressing themselves and doing art,” said Noval Noir, Twerk N Paint organizer and owner. “Everyone can vibe out and have a great time.”
Noir said the details for August’s Twerk N Paint event will be released soon, so be sure to keep an eye on their website.
Art and Wine Night — Driftwood Char Bar
Driftwood, the charming south Minneapolis hole-in-the-wall, hosts art and wine nights once a month. The classes are put on by Wine & Canvas Minneapolis, and each features a different sample painting for attendees to recreate. Come learn some art basics while enjoying a bite to eat or something from the bar.
Larry Sahagian, Driftwood’s music and events booker, said these classes bring friends together to express themselves and share what they create, whether they’re amateur painters or have years of art experience.
“We just are all about music and art, that’s what the Driftwood is,” Sahagian said.
The next art and wine night at Driftwood is taking place on Wednesday, July 28 at 7 p.m. The event is listed on Driftwood’s Facebook page, and attendees must register for the class online at least a day in advance.
Paint & Sip — Burning Brothers Brewing
If you’re looking for something on the other side of the river, Your Bearded Artist is putting on a Paint & Sip event at St. Paul’s Burning Brothers Brewing.
The class will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 18 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Participants will recreate a painting of the northern lights while receiving step-by-step guidance from local artists and enjoying food and beverages from Burning Brothers’ menu.
Registration for the class can be done online.
Project Socials — Upstairs Circus MPLS
If painting isn’t your thing, have no fear! With over 25 projects to choose from, the Project Socials at Upstairs Circus MPLS cater to a variety of crafty interests, whether you’re into woodworking, jewelry making, nail and string art or beyond.
After choosing their project, patrons are given a photo tutorial and the supplies they need. Everyone is able to customize the project to their liking while grabbing a cocktail from the bar and socializing with other “circus-goers.”
Anna Eastep, events and reservations manager at Upstairs Circus MPLS, said the Project Socials allow each guest to express their unique personality while also bonding with other makers.
“I think the appeal of our Project Socials is that they’re the perfect combination of individuality and togetherness,” Eastep said in an email to the Minnesota Daily. “People have the chance to work together with their friends, family and coworkers while watching each other enjoy their artistic sides – something a lot of our patons don’t get the chance to do often!”
The best way to reserve your spot at a Project Social is on Upstairs Circus MPLS’ website.