Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Creative arts meld with socialization for a unique evening out
Arts and crafts are becoming more than home decor ideas. Several businesses are turning such creativity into a fun night out.
“Paint-and-sip” or “paint-and-snack” businesses have grown increasingly popular in recent years, including in Northwest Arkansas. The premise is quite simple. Patrons reserve a spot (and canvas) and work their way through a painting, all the while conversing with friends and enjoying a spirited beverage or two along the way.
Painting events have helped many people tap into their inner artist and make a few new friends along the way. The goal of such events is to have fun and teach adults about painting, and many find the relaxed atmosphere encourages them to express their individuality and artistry.
Painting With a Twist is one such business to hold these events. Locations in Fayetteville and Bentonville allow people to bring friends or just join a gathering. Patrons can bring their own snacks and purchase wine or beer from the bar at the location, then sit and socialize while painting a specific subject. Participants then are able to take their creations home at the end of the session.
“We have a lot of beginners that come into our location,” said Katie Collins, manager of Painting With a Twist in Bentonville. “Some people haven’t put paint to canvas since grade school. They like it because it’s not intimidating and they can come in with friends and family to a fun, relaxed atmosphere and receive step-by-step instruction. The beer and wine helps as well.”
Collins notices that a lot of her patrons like to make a day of it by visiting Crystal Bridges or downtown Bentonville during daylight hours and then winding up at Painting With a Twist that night.
“They can come in at night and come see us and express themselves,” Collins said. “It gives them the freedom to explore their creative side.”
Paint-and-sip events come in various styles. One of the more popular scenarios has people working at an established painting studio, which provides the necessary artistic equipment while guests provide their own drinks and appetizers.
Painting parties have begun to replace more traditional party themes. Some find such parties an entertaining alternative to traditional bachelor or bachelorette parties, while others host birthday parties or baby showers with painting themes. Painting With a Twist plans to hold two special classes on Mother’s Day where the mother and child can sit side-by-side to produce paintings. More information on the classes is available on their website,
paintingwithatwist.com.