This past week, I had the opportunity to guide my first-ever Sip & Paint evening – an experience that turned out to be both creatively rewarding and personally significant. A Sip & Paint evening is a guided group painting session where participants create artwork while enjoying a glass of wine in a relaxed, social setting. The event took place at Toro Wine Bar in Tallinn, where my current exhibition Entre Mundos is also on display. Though I had no prior experience teaching art, the owner of the bar encouraged me to host a painting evening in the space. After taking some time to reflect on this opportunity, I agreed – and I’m very glad I did.
Setting the Scene
The evening brought together 13 participants with a range of backgrounds and experience levels. Some were picking up a paintbrush for the first time, while others were returning to a forgotten hobby. The venue provided a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, and the combination of art, conversation, and wine created an ideal environment for creative expression.
All materials were provided, and each participant received a glass of wine as part of the experience. I guided the group step by step as we painted a luminous mountain scene inspired by a glowing sunset over snowy peaks. The subject was chosen for its strong contrasts, atmospheric colors, and suitability for introducing texture – a key element of my own artistic practice.
Creative Process and Individual Expression
While some guests followed the reference image closely, others chose to explore their own interpretations. I encouraged this freedom throughout the evening, and the results were impressive – each piece was unique, with one in particular echoing the softness and brushwork of Monet.
We worked with both brushes and palette knives, introducing participants to textured techniques that many had not tried before. While the focus wasn’t solely on texture, it was woven into the experience in an accessible way. Several attendees expressed enthusiasm about experimenting with these tools and effects.
Reflections on Teaching and Interpretation
One of the most interesting aspects of guiding this event was observing how differently people interpret the same instructions. As I introduced each step – whether it was blending a gradient sky or shaping the mountain ridge – I noticed how each participant filtered the process through their own perspective. Despite following the same general guidance, the outcomes varied significantly. It was a reminder that creativity is never linear, and that even structured instruction allows space for individual expression. This experience deepened my appreciation for the diversity of artistic interpretation and highlighted the importance of offering both direction and freedom in a creative setting.
Participant Feedback
The feedback I received during and after the event was overwhelmingly positive. One guest mentioned that she not only enjoyed the evening but also felt she had genuinely learned something new about painting. Others expressed interest in future events or even commissioning custom artwork.
It was especially encouraging to hear that many assumed I had hosted painting events before – despite this being my first time in such a role. The atmosphere evolved naturally throughout the evening – from quiet and focused at first to lively and conversational as the group relaxed into the creative process.
What to Expect from a Sip & Paint
For those who may be interested in attending in the future, here’s what to expect:
A calm, welcoming environment – no previous experience required.
All painting materials provided.
A guided session with room for individual interpretation.
A focus on color, texture, and accessible techniques.
A complimentary glass of wine to enjoy during the session.
Looking Ahead
After the success of this Sip & Paint evening, I’m definitely open to participating in more. Future events will be announced via @isabelladelsol_ on Instagram and through Toro Wine Bar’s (@torowinebar) social media channels.
If you’re looking for an evening that combines creativity, connection, and an introduction to expressive painting techniques, I’d be happy to welcome you to a future session.
Thank you to everyone who joined me for this experience. It was a pleasure to guide you through the process, and I look forward to seeing where this new path may lead.
– IsabellaDelSol
