Vine Gogh Artist Bar & Studio, Portland

As the artist-in-residence at a local grade school, Vine Gogh Artist Bar & Studio owner Jenny Schildan inspired more than 600 grade-schoolers to confidently wield a paintbrush. Now, she applies the same patience and passion when teaching her adult art classes.

Jenny likes to emphasize the therapeutic, meditative aspects of painting in her classes. “You kind of get tunnel vision for a couple hours—it’s a nice way to leave the planet.” To set a soothing tone, she serves wine and puts on music, and kicks off classes with a toast. Then, she delves deeply into technique, from which brush to use to proper brushstrokes and basic color theory. “I tell students it’s like learning a dance routine. You go step by step and at the end, you have whole piece.”

Her fellow instructors tout not just technical expertise—but a lifelong passion for art and teaching. She believes that the nurturing environment the group fosters can lure even the most timid painter to the canvas. “People have shocked themselves to see what they can create.”

Groupon Guide

How Much Skill Do You Really Need to Attend a Painting and Wine Class?

Answer: absolutely zero. To prove it, we sent a very nervous writer to document his first paint and drink experience.