Tapping into the artist within — Photo courtesy of The Paint Mixer
Everyone knows if you ask a young child about their skills with color, they are not shy to proudly announce, "I am an artist!" But if the same query is posed to an adult, the first response is usually an insecure, "Oh, I can't draw to save my life." Whether you're fearless or fearful, The Paint Mixer in Park City, Utah, provides guests just the right atmosphere to pick up a brush and see the canvas come to life. And no one understands this more than owner Nicky Lecher, who, although not an artist herself, saw the potential for fun in this modern twist on artistry for all ages.
At her brother's suggestion, and after researching other similar businesses around the country, the South African native decided to open her doors, first in Park City in September of 2012, then later in November 2013 in the trendy Sugarhouse neighborhood of Salt Lake City. A third location is now in the works for San Francisco. As the only venue of its kind in the area, it's easy to see why The Paint Mixer in Park City stays as busy as they do, hosting groups ranging in size from 15-220 people.
Date night at The Paint Mixer — Photo courtesy of The Paint Mixer
Adults will relax and enjoy the fun (especially with glass of wine in hand) whether in a large group or on a romantic date. The Paint Mixer provides wine, beer, non-alcoholic beverages and snacks, while a professional instructor guides you step by step in creating your work of art.
Participants simply go to the calendar online, choose a painting selection and date and reserve a spot. Fees are $35-$40, depending on weekday or weekend. Reaching a broad range of customers, The Paint Mixer provides settings for young and old, whether the purpose be for corporate team building or just sheer fun.
The Paint Mixer has hosted a variety of fundraising events, too, benefiting such groups as the University of Utah women's basketball team and the American Cancer Society. Events off site (Paint Mixer to Go) have taken place at such beautiful locales as the St. Regis, Montage and Stein Eriksen Lodge, all in beautiful Deer Valley.
Corporations such as Delta and Adobe Systems have enlisted The Paint Mixer for a night of team building camaraderie. The Paint Mixer has partnered with restaurants such as the quaint Tin Angel Cafe in Salt Lake City and even traveled as far as St. George, Utah, in the southwestern part of the state for a regional hospital event. In May, they will play host to the national Summit Event Marketing group at The Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City.
Open studio times throughout the month are a more relaxing way to come and create for two hours, minus the group instruction. An artist is on hand if help is needed, while relaxing music accompanies your creativity. They also offer private instruction at this time. All materials are always provided, and set up and clean up are taken care of.
Paint, drink, eat . . . repeat! — Photo courtesy of The Paint Mixer
Wanting to expose your child to a new experience? Consider the week-long workshops offered for kids and teens. Instructors are professional artists themselves, with impressive resumes, and they're ready to support and guide in this structured and caring environment.
Also check The Paint Mixer's calendar for Family Days. It's a fun and relaxing way for kids to bond with parents and grandparents alike.
Every house has that one big empty wall that is just begging for attention. After attending a Large Canvas Workshop (three 3-hour sessions), you may just have the thing to fill it. Students learn about transferring small images onto big canvases, highlighting and background techniques. Class size is limited, and basic painting skills are required for this session.
Also, for something different, paintings can be done on wine bottles and you can even create your own special personalized label - what a unique gift idea. Birthday parties are also popular at The Paint Mixer. A gift card may be just the thing to give your spouse, family member or boss the chance for a little down time to de-stress.
Whatever your reason for visiting The Paint Mixer, come see why this new and notable attraction is listed as Trip Advisor's #1 thing to do for fun in Park City. And who knows? Especially during the Sundance Film Festival, you could be sitting right next to someone from the big screen. (Lindsay Lohan was spotted painting one night.)
Come see why this new form of social entertainment is truly sweeping the country right now. Of course Park City would be hip enough to have its own The Paint Mixer.