Uncork'd Art, DC

I've been searching for something different to do in DC. In the process, I discovered Uncork'd Art, a painting party complete with wine and dessert. Basically, it is a 2-hour painting party during which you and about 30 other people create acrylic paintings while enjoying a glass of wine with dessert.

Our class was scheduled for Friday at 6:30 p.m. in an art gallery in Georgetown. We arrived around 6:15 p.m. and took a look around. The canvases and paint were set up on the tables. On the walls was an art exhibition, which just happened to be focused on erotica. Amongst the private parts were pictures of bondage, handcuffs, and much, much more. I knew this was going to be an interesting night.

We picked a seat and went up to the bar. There were many wines to choose from -- some of which we were familiar and some we'd never seen before. The bartender was a quirky, fun guy and he encouraged us to try some wine before choosing our glass. I finally chose the Inkling.

All of the other participants arrived and we got started around 6:35 p.m. The art director said that she would guide us in painting the featured piece of the night, an abstract lady, or we could just create our own vision. Many people had already started creating something different. Not having much experience with acrylics, I decided to follow her guidance. Zach, on the other hand, decided to go off on his own. So, step-by-step, she talked us through the brush strokes, making it easy for anyone, regardless of skill level, to create a beautiful work of art.

They made it a lot of fun. There were a bunch of couples along with groups of friends all painting to the tune of dance music while drinking wine and eating cake. I informed them that I was vegan beforehand and asked if they might be able to offer hummus or some sort of vegan snack. They told me they can't always do this, but could accommodate this time. I really appreciated that they had chips and hummus waiting for me when I arrived.

As we were nearing the end of the session, many of us realized we were not nearly finished. They seemed pretty set on ending the session at exactly 8:30 p.m. I figured they'd be flexible if we needed a little more time. Around 8:26, they announced that we had 4 minutes left and, unfortunately, my painting was not dry yet. They allowed us to stay until 8:35 p.m. or so, then encouraged everyone to pack up even if their paintings weren't dry. This was an unfortunate end to a great night. They started cleaning up immediately and I felt rushed out.

At the end, I created a portrait of a lady, which turned out pretty darn good if I do say so myself! I added the flower on my own, by the way. :)

My painting

Zach painted Katie, my cat, sitting on the sofa with our bonsai on the windowsill. Very cute.

Zach's painting of Katie

Uncork'd Art is a great concept - art, wine, and food all in a fun atmosphere. Although it is pricey at $50 per person, it is definitely a lot of fun. The only thing I didn't like was being rushed out at the end, but I guess they did tell us that we'd have two hours. Regardless, I'd definitely recommend this experience. It was so much fun and I hope to do it again in the future.