April 15, 2016
PAINT ‘N’ SIP: EXPERIENCE ART
As seen in the Malvern News, 15 April 2016
Based in Ilam, Christchurch the Paint ‘n’ Sip Studio was opened by Amanda Anthony in 2014. Feeling a disconnection from her social life after the earthquakes Amanda made it her mission to empower people in a fun and creative way.
Paint. Sip. Party. Socialise – is the slogan and it certainly sums up an evening at the studio.
The News was invited to experience the Paint ‘n’ Sip concept and after the initial trepidation, excitement won over.
The Darfield group attending were surprised at the light, modern surroundings and enjoyed viewing the hung artworks without intimidation.
The group enjoyed a friendly welcome, and could partake of a drink on arrival, before donning an apron and taking a seat in front of their canvas.
The evening’s painting to be replicated was on the wall and for most – this is when reality kicked in.
While some of those attending (including some from the Darfield contingent) were experienced artists, others were total novices.
The evening’s artist host set the ball rolling with basic, helpful instructions and information. This included a pertinent directive not to confuse wine glass with painting water – needless to say there was a painter or two imbibing blue or orange bubbly!
The instructions were clear and concise and even the most anxious of budding artists managed to produce a near masterpiece with aplomb.
It was an evening of sipping, painting, laughing and there was even singing at one point!
Van Morrison’s Brown eyed girl or Dexy’s Midnight Runners Come on Eileen were just a couple of the well-known tracks blasted out inbetween instructions and enhancing the already convivial atmosphere.
The Paint ‘n’ Sip host and artist spent their spare moments offering tips, tricks, advice and anecdotes to the enthusiastic painters.
“I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and I created something that I would never have done of my own accord,” commented News staff member Nicki Rolleston. “I would have no idea how to start a project like this and found the idea of providing materials, instruction, wine and music – absolute genius!”
“We’re all keen to go again – it would be wonderful experience with a child or a partner too,” Nicki commented.
My masterpiece is currently being prepared for hanging on my teenager’s wall. For many years I had to endure her artwork all around the house, car, windows etc, so it’s only fair that I give her mine!”
http://malvernnews.co.nz/malvern/paint-n-sip-experience-art/