Drinking while completing run-of-the-mill activities is the latest trend to sweep through New Zealand. First there was the act of downing a cold one while attempting downward dog at beer yoga; now there's the marriage of wine and painting.
The exercise of staying hydrated between brush strokes apparently originated in Alabama in 2004 as a way for art students to tick off both painting and drinking. After noticing the success of similar events internationally, visual arts graduate Laurie Merk and social worker Cassandra Ruhe-Hodge were inspired to start Mixing it Up, Auckland's own wine and painting party. "Painting while sipping your favourite drink is a perfect way to relax and recharge during time out with friends."
Current Mixing It Up events are held at restaurants and community venues across the city — the next is scheduled for this Mother's Day at Everybody's from 4-6pm. No previous experience or artistic skills are needed as guests are guided step-by-step through each two-hour session. All the appropriate tools are supplied to make your own masterpiece, so you can simply put on an apron, grab a vino and translate your head trip on paper.
Visit the Mixing it Up website for upcoming classes and more information.