I want to preface this by pointing out that I am not at all- in any way, shape, or form (see what I…read moredid there)-artistic! And you know what, I am fine with that. So, when the opportunity arose to test out "A Taste of Art" I jumped at it. I wanted to see just how far I could push my lack of talent and see what results would be gathered from the experience. I attended a Paint and Sip evening at Butch + Babe's restaurant in Burlington. Upon walking in, the first thing I noticed was the intimate size of the space and that there were a few too-many-tables-to-count set up in the far right side of the restaurant for the paint event. Aside from that, I also observed a confident presence. Standing at the head of the table was a warm, eager looking lady whom I later came to learn was Sue herself! Sue had already taken the time to set up each one of our canvases, paint dollops, brushes, water, and even aprons! Though the space was a bit tight, I really felt that we had adequate room to maneuver our inner artists! Sue began the sessions by telling us a tiny bit about herself and her business. She then showed us the painting we would use as a guide and gently began to introduce us into the world of painting. I found Sue to be quite instructional and pleasant. Though she was at the very front of the space, she took the time to really engage with all of us on an individual basis. She did her best to accommodate our random artistic whims and really worked with individuals to guide them in adding character to their paintings. Sue is real, relate able, and has a calm, soothing way about her. She is very passionate about what she does and she wants to share it with the world. So go on, go hang out with Sue; bring out the artist within!

I have been lucky enough to do 2 classes with Sue. One was an event thru SEABA and the second was a…read moreprivate party at a co-workers home. At both events Sue walked us all thru a painting (the sunflowers and the snowman if you review the photos - note - those aren't my photos!) With the exception of the art credit I need for my electives, I tend to be more a spreadsheet kinda girl verses creative.... Sue can make anyone an artist! Trust me a little wine helps with any nerves you might have too! Both results were fantastic and I have them hanging proudly on my wall. If you want a fun night out with friends that isn't your normal dinner and drinks, try one of Sue's events!

I had the opportunity to attend one of Natasha's paint classes. My sister and I decided to…read moreparticipate in our first paint and sip class. To be honest, I was a little nervous because I am not much of a painter. But Natasha was so welcoming and had such a warm presence. Natasha was an excellent teacher-- encouraging and patient, but left room for you to add your creative touches. Natasha was especially good at checking in with each of us. I left the class with a beautiful painting of a snowy landscape that hangs in my bathroom today. I would highly recommend taking a class with her! Thank you, Natasha! -Holly D

We commissioned a painting last summer and would definitely recommend working with Natasha! She was…read moreeasy to communicate with and excellent at translating our hopes into her style. She also captures the magic of winter unlike anyone else.

This is the best serious painting atelier. You learn everything from drawing, charcoal, classic…read morerealism oil painting, live models on Saturday. and Eric is just great. Small classes,a lot of personal attention!

Allana Benham and Eric Mannella are accomplished figurative artists with a sound grasp of…read moreclassical drawing and painting. Their classes are an excellent foundation for any artist.

Searching ~ always searching for good utilitarian pottery, so I thought to ask around in Waitsfield…read morefor a butter bell. For those unfamiliar with one, it is a two-piece container for fresh butter and a small layer of water. Water in the base and butter in the bell that is inserted upside down so that the water forms a seal. The French used it centuries ago before refrigeration and my mother and i still do. I was kindly referred to this place and lo and behold I found one - just one, but a beautiful soft blue with a leafy design. And the prices are quite moderate. I bought a unique little pitcher for myself. A must visit as well as Red Hen Bakery & Cafe, Wifi, and all.

From the owner: Montpelier Mud offers pottery classes, monthly memberships and private lessons as well as a gallery…read morehighlighting our members diverse and unique work.

It is a great place to express your creativity. I love the classes being offered there. I will be…read moreexploring more of my artistic talents.

Was so amazed at the craftsmanship and quality of the products. The insightful staff was so…read morefriendly and made me feel welcome. I will always be looking forward to going back again and again! I can't wait to see all the new items and merchandise that is about to hit the market.

Such a cute little spot that's a relatively recent add to the city hall/church street area. Was…read moregiven this experience as a gift and was so excited! They offer painting and mosaics! I've been to a paint-your-own pottery shop before but never a mosaic option! How cool! They have several premade pottery options, with lots of paint colors if you come to paint. For the mosaics they have pre created options that you tile. I was hoping for a circle option that resembled a garden stone but they were out at the time of my visit- not a negative thing at all as I totally understand that- but more so as a thought to plan ahead! I would suggest calling to see if they have the shape you are looking to mosaic before coming in. The only thing I would suggest for the space is to have more options that are not animal shaped to mosaic, as that would cater to the adult crowd more. I went with the heart mirror option and was excited to get to work! They have a wall of different colored shapes and sizes of colored tiles. I was given a tin to select a handful of colors to help separate. I am visiting family here and decided to do a VT sunset with their mountains as my inspo. The turn around time was quick! They were able to grout it for me (for an upcharge) and it was done and ready for pick up the next day! The ladies working were so sweet and helpful, explaining everything for me and checked in regularly on how the process was going. What a great reminder of family and my trip this year! They offer reservations online, you can also call in to book a reservation, and they do walk-ins as well. Lots of tables but I would recommend a reservation (esp with a larger group) to ensure you have a spot to sit to create!

This place was ADORABLE!! Burlington absolutely needed a pottery painting studio, as the closest…read morewas around 1.5 hours away. They have other crafts that we didn't do, but the pottery was amazing. Many colors, stencils, and pottery to choose from, and our pottery was ready in 6 days. Will be going back!