Aspiring artists can try their hand at acrylic painting over a glass of wine or beer at the newly opened
Brush Studio (2213 Wealthy St. SE, East Grand Rapids).
The 1,600-square-foot instructional art studio offers two-hour instructional painting classes that take students from a blank canvas to a piece of art worthy of their household wall. Classes cost $35.
"You sign up online based on the painting that you are interested in learning," explains Lisa Jabara, owner of Brush Studio. "We have an instructor that instructs you on that painting -- say, it's Starry Night -- brush stroke by brush stroke from start to finish."
Brush is able to accommodate small groups that would like to reserve a table as well as larger private parties of 20 or more who wish to rent out the entire space. Jabara also plans to offer team-building classes to local businesses, which can be held on or off site.
In addition to painting classes and open painting, the studio has also partnered with nearby
Ramona's Table to create food options for customers to enjoy while they work. The restaurant developed a menu of appetizers, sandwiches and salads. The studio will offer several Michigan beers and wines as well as some non-local options. The wine and beer menu includes Oberon, Bells Two Hearted, Little Black Dress and Dreaming Tree.
"It's such a fun atmosphere to have a bunch of people painting. And there's music, and everybody is drinking wine and beer," Jabara says. "It's a great time."
Brush is not just a place for adults; the studio offers family-focused classes on Saturdays and Sundays for parents and their kids.
The store is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for open painting. To learn more visit,
www.brushgr.com.
Source: Lisa Jabara, Brush Studio
Writer: Charlsie Dewey, Freelance Reporter
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