Search
22 Oct 2025
Search
22 Oct 2025
Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content.
Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist.
If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter .
Support our mission and join our community now.
To continue reading this article, you can subscribe for as little as €0.50 per week which will also give you access to all of our premium content and archived articles!
Alternatively, you can pay €0.50 per article, capped at €1 per day.
Thank you for supporting Ireland's best local journalism!
A painting class was held in the restaurant setting for three hours whilst participants socialised and enjoyed a few drinks
Derry's new experience, Paint and Sip.Art, held its sold out opening night in Umi restaurant on Monday (May 8) in the city.
A painting class was held in the restaurant setting for three hours whilst participants socialised and enjoyed a few drinks.
The event's founder, Derry man, Gareth Loughrey, said the first night was a great success as they look forward to hosting many more in the city.
Gareth lived in America for 20 years and returned home this year with the hope to launch Paint and Sip. Art.
Speaking to Derry News, Gareth said: "We have good experience from doing these events in the US. That is how the idea came about to bring it home to Derry. I went to art classes in America and it got me involved in that scene and I loved it."
Gareth explained you don't have to have ever lifted a paintbrush to take part, "A lot of people were nervous about their ability but you don't need any experience in art.
"There were people who had never painted a day in their life, we talked them through the process and they had a great time and they really enjoyed it.
"People were saying it was so relaxing and therapeutic for them, it took them back to their childhood, that was great to see that side of it.
"People are drinking away at their wine too, the paintings get a little bit better looking then too," he laughed, "The craic was great."
Gareth and the team provide all the painting materials and it is a step by step process on how to turn a blank canvas into a work of art.
Gareth continued: "The picture is something we have already predetermined and the artist talks you through the process on how to paint it.
"It is the perfect event for date nights, family nights, girls night or bringing the whole crew; relaxing, painting and socialising.
"We are also available for private parties, hen nights, birthday parties, and support groups.
"We aim to run many more events and host weekly, too. It is always good fun."
All painting materials are included in the price with food and drinks sold separately.
To book the next event or hold a paint and sip party at your bar or restaurant, contact gareth@paintandsip.art
Subscribe or register today to discover more from DonegalLive.ie
Buy the e-paper of the Donegal Democrat, Donegal People's Press, Donegal Post and Inish Times here for instant access to Donegal's premier news titles.
Keep up with the latest news from Donegal with our daily newsletter featuring the most important stories of the day delivered to your inbox every evening at 5pm.
This publication supports the work of the Press Council of Ireland and Office of the Press Ombudsman, and our staff operate within the Code of Practice of the Press Council. You can obtain a copy of the Code, or contact the Council, at www.presscouncil.ie, Lo-call 1800 208 080 or email: info@presscouncil.ie.
