One of the best ways to forget the stresses of everyday life is to get lost in a creative activity for a while. Wichita is home to many art facilities where people of all ages and levels of experience can learn to make art. Here are a few places that you should try if you want to learn a new art technique in a friendly and welcoming environment. more 1. Pinot's Palette Pinot's Palette is a national "paint and sip" franchise that offers art classes with a difference. As a matter of fact, an art class at Pinot's is just as much about socializing as it is about art. Those living in, or visiting, Wichita who would like a sip of wine or beer with friends while learning a new painting technique should make a night of it at the locally-owned Pinot's. Although you are welcome to attend an art class by yourself, the venue offers a nice opportunity for friends, partners, or family to socialize while learning something new and interesting. The way it works is that clients bring their own drinks and snacks, while the venue supplies wine glasses, ice, plates, napkins, and free bottled water. The art classes that are offered are constantly changed and updated, but at the moment you could opt for classes like Aurora Through the Trees, where you get to play with the colors of the Aurora Borealis in your work; Manet's Lilacs in a Vase, where you learn some of the techniques of this great artist; and Peaceful View, in which students recall a peaceful view and paint it. 2. CityArts CityArts, located in a three-story building in the Old Town district, offers a space where community members can attend art classes and give free reign to their creativity throughout the year. The teaching body consists of over 35 professional artists who share their knowledge in various disciplines such as glass fusing, glass blowing, photography, drawing, digital arts, and pottery. Classes are open to people of all ages, backgrounds, and levels of expertise. Kids are also invited to learn to make art in various mediums by attending CityArts' youth camps and workshops. The facility houses four gallery spaces where new exhibitions are held each month, as well as the CityArts boutique where over 100 local and regional artists put up their work for sale. 3. Art Towne Art Towne offers a fun and friendly environment where people can learn to make art. A variety of art classes are offered, and all are welcome, regardless of age or level of experience. You could even host an adult or children's party at the art venue, or attend one of the adult paint and sip evening classes. Current classes include Giraffe Painting, Outdoor Art at the Park, and Palette Knife Fine Art Class. The facility also provides after-school programs and youth group events. One is never too old or too young to learn something new. Taking time to learn a new art technique and letting your creative juices flow is a wonderful way to forget the stresses of life and release some happy hormones. Image via Flickr by If you didn't film it, it didn't happen! CC by SA-2.0
