Ever since Canvas & Grapes opened in late 2015, there’s always an excuse to get out of the house and meet creative souls who like to paint, drink and even grab the microphone for an evening of karaoke.
The first artist-owned/artist-operated studio in NJ, Canvas & Grapes is unlike most other art/wine appreciation franchises that exist across the Garden State. This one is run by real-life painter, Luis Poveda, the first Latino artist to break the boundaries of the paint-and-sip phenomenon by offering a highly entertaining, slightly raucous, environment.
Custom music, complemented by Luis’s stage presence as a deejay, engages everyone in the room. Painters say they like the upbeat art class and dance party vibe. “People don’t interact with each other if they don’t know each other. We’re here to break that boundary through art and music. We’re not here to create a gimmick, but rather to expose people to a true artistic culture,” says Luis.
Canvas & Grapes, operating out of Edison (2595 Woodbridge Avenue) and Morristown (88 Speedwell Avenue) locations, offers three types of classes, depending on your energy level. Relaxed studio time is available mornings and afternoons, Monday-Wednesday. Semi-relaxed events happen Thursday evenings and weekend afternoons. And upbeat fun is in store every Friday and Saturday evening. Tickets can be purchased online for $35 to $45 per class, depending on the type of event and supplies provided.
Ask about birthday celebrations, girls’ nights out and bachelorette parties at either location.