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Muse, which opened in August at 55 N. Main St., combines painting instruction with a restaurant and bar. The sessions are open to the public, and cost $29 to $45, with an additional charge for food and beverages.
People can sign up online for a Muse class. There are six locations for Muse, including one in West Hartford.
“It’s great for people who have never painted before,’’ said Jeremy Jordan, manager of the South Norwalk business. “It’s a great way to relax and just let go.”
Led by Jordan or one of the other staff artists, painters are guided throughout the entire process on how to create a masterpiece. Muse provides the paint, canvas, apron and instruction.
People can arrive up to 30 minutes before the painting session starts to enjoy food and drinks. People can encouraged to register online for the classes, but can also drop in to a class if space is available.
Many of the sessions at Muse are group parties. The painting sessions are terrific for birthday parties, girls night out, work events or fundraisers. For instance, a private event later in October will raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Artists submit plans for painting projects, and they are approved by Muse. People choose the piece that they want to paint, sign up for the class online and then produce the artwork. Add in a little food, wine and fun, and it’s one of the most unique events around.
Jordan leads many of the sessions. A graduate of Central Connecticut State University with a degree in studio art, Jordan worked at another location and was planning to return to his native Alabama when he was asked to open the Norwalk store. He couldn’t say no.
“I had one foot out the door,’’ Jordan said. “But I just couldn’t leave it. This is something I love to do.”
With his trademark cowboy hat and friendly personality, Jordan instructs people with virtually no artistic talent to walk out of the store with a ready-to-frame portrait. Sprinkle in some food and drink, and it makes for a memorable party. Muse can accommodate up to 45 painters.
“The reception we’ve had has been great so far,’’ Jordan said. “People are really enjoying it.”
For more information, visit the Muse website or Facebook page.
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