A High School Art Teacher’s Experience

 
Hayley, a high school art teacher, at work in her private studioPaint and Sip classes have never been more popular. It seems like every time we visit Instagram or Facebook, we see images of friends proudly holding their latest masterpieces.
 
Today, we hear from a high school art teacher, Hayley, who was wondering what to make of this recent phenomenon. She recently attended a paint and sip class at the Foothills Event Center with a couple of friends. Here’s what she learned!
 

Class Starts

When we arrived at the class, the first thing I noticed was the atmosphere. It was relaxed and fun and packed with people eager to spend time with their friends.
 
My paintbrushes and canvas were ready for me when I arrived, along with my paint. I instantly recognized why so many people enjoy this kind of thing. It’s like having creativity catered to you!
 
Students begin their paintingsWe began on our paintings with the background. The instructor told us to choose big brushes and make choppy strokes with brown paint. Next, we overlapped white paint over the wet brown paint.
 
Then, we added yellow to finish with the background and took a break so that the paint could dry. Everyone talked and laughed and proceeded to have a good time. After that, we started working on adding trees in the foreground.
 

Guided Instruction

Our instructor provided us with specific, step-by-step directions to help the class add the birch trees onto our canvases. I was pleased to see that she walked around the room, offering helpful tips to each person.
 
When my friend got stressed out with trying to replicate the trees from the example painting, the instructor came over to her and was able to help her out. Our instructor kindly told the class, “Take a sip of your drink and keep going.” We did, adding black lines to our birch trees.
 
Throughout the painting process, she provided us with examples of how we could get creative with our paintings. “Feel free to change up the colors,” and “You could paint a bird on one of your trees,” she said.
 
Everyone shows off their paintings

My Takeaway

Paint and sip classes sure are fun social events! People like coming to them because it feels good to hang out with friends and make something.  

Since our instructor gave us step-by-step guidance, these classes are beginner-friendly. Paint and sip classes are perfect for adults who want an activity to do with friends that unique, fun, and art-related.
 
 
 
Have you ever attended a paint and sip class? We’d love to know your thoughts!