Overview
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 and to put the "culture back in New Zealand's drinking culture," Auckland-based founders Alex Hamilton, Denym Bird and Euan Lockie were inspired to start Paintvine.
Since launching ten months ago more than 100 Paintvine nights have been held with over 2500 would-be Picassos assembling in venues across the North Island. For the first session in Wellington, 32 artists had a go at recreating van Gogh's The Starry Night at Leroy's on Lambton Quay. Eight more events are scheduled over the next two months.
No previous experience or artistic skills are required as guests are guided step-by-step through a famous work. All the appropriate tools are supplied to make your own masterpiece, so you can simply put on an apron, grab a vino (the first one is free) and translate your head trip on paper.
Visit the Paintvine website for upcoming classes and more information.