Month: July 2023
15 Unusual Team Building Activities in Liverpool
by olivia
15 Unusual Team Building Activities in Liverpool
Looking to take your team bonding to the next level in Liverpool? Well, we’ve got a lineup of extraordinary and exciting team building activities that will have your colleagues cheering for more! Say goodbye to the mundane and hello to the weird and wonderful – it’s time to spice up your team’s camaraderie. Check out these fantastic ideas for your next team building event:
In-Person Unusual Team Building Activities
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1. Indoor Skydiving
Why jump out of a plane when you can experience the thrill of indoor skydiving right here in Liverpool? iFLY offers an adrenaline-pumping adventure with expert help and pre-flight safety briefings. It’s the perfect way to let go of stress and enjoy the moment of weightlessness as a team. This really is a thrill-seeker’s dream of a unique team building activity.
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2. Dragon’s Den
No fiery dragons here, just a captivating team building event where your colleagues can pitch inspired business ideas. Split your group members into small groups and watch your team bond as they develop creative solutions and present their pitches to the network. Who knows, you might discover the next big idea for your business!
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3. Paint and Sip Class
Get those creative juices flowing with a paint and sip class – the ultimate team bonding experience. Escape the office stress and let your team play with paint to create colourful artworks. Pinot & Picasso Liverpool can even bring the studio to your office, making it a breeze to create masterpieces together!
4. Poker Night
Feeling lucky? Organise a poker night for your team to unwind and relax. It’s a game of skill, strategy, and fun! Let your team members show off their poker faces and enjoy some friendly competition.
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5. Murder Mystery
Get ready to put your detective skills to the test in a thrilling murder mystery event! Your team will be captivated as they work together to solve the mysterious whodunit. Add a themed dress-up element for an extra dose of excitement!
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6. Flash Mob
Move and groove with a fantastic flash mob! Rehearse a dance routine with your team, and watch the excitement and trust build as you plan this audacious team building experience. Who knows, your flash mob might go viral!
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7. Break Guinness World Records
Challenge your team to think big and break a Guinness World Record! Brainstorm ideas related to your business and strategise how to achieve record-breaking greatness. It’s a fantastic conversation starter and a unique achievement to showcase to clients and partners.
8. Cooking Class
Spice up your team bonding with a cooking class! Choose from various cuisines and let your team collaborate to whip up some delicious meals. It’s a flavourful way to improve teamwork and share some laughter. A cooking class might bring up some nostalgic childhood memories.
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9. Circus Classes
Want to bring some circus magic to your team building? Circus classes are a great way to build trust, balance, and confidence. Learn important teamwork skills through this thrilling and unique experience.
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10. Paintball Session
Unleash the energy with an exhilarating paintball session. Outdoor team building activities encourage healthy competition and gets your blood pumping. You can play creative games like ‘Capture the Flag’ which promote teamwork and bring the team closer – just make sure you’re on the winning team!
Just remember, those paintball bruises are battle scars of a great time! This will make for fun conversation starters in your next meeting.
Virtual Unusual Team Building Activities
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1. Virtual Escape Rooms
Challenge your remote team’s problem-solving and communication skills with a virtual escape room. Work together to crack codes, solve puzzles, and escape from virtual rooms.
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2. Virtual Cook-Off
Put a virtual twist on a classic team building activity with a cook-off! Set cooking challenges or recreate favourite childhood meals – a delicious way to connect even from afar. You can even uncover something new about a team member through the power of food.
3. Virtual Family Feud
Test your team’s knowledge with a virtual Family Feud game. It’s all about friendly competition and fostering employee engagement. Plus, who doesn’t love a chance to win a grand prize?
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4. Virtual Scavenger Hunt
Engage your remote team with a virtual scavenger hunt. Create lists of unique household items to search for, and let the team bond over completing the challenges. While it may be an unusual team building event, it’s a great activity that can be done in small and large groups and can encourage creativity. What goodies can you find in a room?
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5. Virtual Fitness Class
Take a break from the emails and get your team moving with a virtual fitness class. It’s good for physical health, can boost mental well-being and improve team cohesion all from the comfort of peoples’ homes.Â
Book a Paint and Sip Session with Pinot & Picasso Today!
Whether you’re gathering in person or connecting virtually, these unique team building activities will surely ignite the team spirit. Embrace the fun, creativity, and camaraderie, and watch your company culture flourish thanks to these unique team building activities in Liverpool.
And hey, why not reward your team with a Paint and Sip session at Pinot & Picasso Liverpool? A perfect opportunity to unleash the artistic genius in your team and create a masterpiece of unforgettable memories. Book your event today and let the creativity flow!
What is Canvas Art? A Beginners Guide to Canvas & Acrylic Paint
by olivia
What is Canvas Art? A Beginners Guide to canvas & Acrylic Paint - Pinot & Picasso
An artwork always starts with a blank canvas. From acrylic painting to working with oils, canvas art embraces many artistic styles. Many artists create with many different mediums but canvas print will always remain top tier. So why do we love it so much, and how can you best use it in your creations?
What is Acrylic Canvas Art?
 One of the most exciting things about acrylic canvas art is staring at a blank canvas, picturing it being transformed into a masterpiece. Acrylic painting allows you to use vibrant colours to cover a canvas which was the art form that inspired painting geniuses like Jackson Pollock.
Acrylic Canvas Art vs Acrylic Canvas Prints
So, what’s the deal with acrylic canvas art versus acrylic canvas prints? Well, it’s like comparing the thrill of creating your own piece of art to the joy of appreciating printed masterpieces.
Acrylic canvas art is all about you, your vision, and the sheer joy of bringing it to life. On the other hand, acrylic canvas prints are like eye-catching replicas of stunning acrylic paintings, ready to adorn your walls without getting your hands dirty. Both have their own charm and perks, but it depends on the type of creative YOU are as to which one you prefer.
What is Acrylic Paint?
Let’s talk about the king of paints (our personal fave): acrylic paint. It’s like the Picasso of the paint world, bold and versatile. It’s water-based, dries quickly, and gives you the power to layer colours and create breathtaking effects on your canvas. Unlike its oil-based cousins, acrylic paint loves a splash of water and is super easy to clean up. So, no more worrying about getting into a sticky situation when you’re on a creative streak.
Acrylic Paint vs Watercolour vs Oil Paint
In one corner, we have the feisty acrylic paint, known for its boldness and versatility. With a water-based composition and quick-drying powers, acrylics offer a colourful playground for artists to explore. Layer it, mix it, and add texture to your heart’s content. It’s the cool kid of the paint world, making art accessible to all with its wide range of pigments and easy cleanup.
In the opposite corner, watercolour steps in, bringing a touch of ethereal beauty to the fight. This translucent medium dances delicately on the canvas, capturing light, shadows, and the sweet nuances of nature. With water as its faithful companion, watercolour effortlessly blends and flows, creating soft and whimsical washes of colour. It’s perfect for those seeking a dreamy and enchanting aesthetic in their paintings.
And finally, making a grand entrance, we have the heavyweight champion, oil paint. With its rich and vibrant pigments, oil paint creates bold and timeless masterpieces stroke by stroke. Its slow drying time allows for seamless blending and intricate details, giving depth and intensity to your artwork. Oil painting is the grand maestro, conducting a symphony of colours that captivates the eye.
Each paint has its own unique qualities and moments in the spotlight. Whether you choose the versatility of acrylic paint, the ethereal charm of watercolour, or the timeless elegance of oil paint, let your artistic vision guide you. Embrace the paint that speaks to you, and let the battle of the paints commence (sorry not sorry, we can be really dramatic).
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Advantages of Acrylic Paint:
There are many advantages to acrylic painting. Here are just a few:
- Pigments Galore: Acrylics come in a dazzling array of pigments, ensuring your painting bursts with stunning colours.
- Layer It Up: You can pile on the colours, creating depth and dimension that’ll make your art pop.
- Texture, Baby: Acrylics are all about texture. Grab a brush, a palette knife, or even your fingers, and create captivating textures that’ll add a touch of magic to your masterpiece.
Acrylic Painting Techniques:
When it comes to acrylic painting techniques, it’s all about layering. Think of it as building a delicious sandwich, but instead of mayo and lettuce, you’re stacking colours, patterns, and textures.
Play around with different brush strokes, try splattering or even pouring techniques, and let your creativity run wild. There are no rules when it comes to acrylic paint.
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Beginner’s Guide to Different Canvases
Let’s talk canvases, shall we? They’re the surfaces where your artistic ideas come to life. Here’s a beginner’s guide to different canvases, so you can make an informed choice for your next creation:
Understanding the Difference in Canvases
When it comes to canvases, you have a buffet of options. You’ve got your trusty cotton canvas, versatile and widely used in the art world. Then there’s the classy linen canvas, known for its smooth surface and durability. And if you’re feeling adventurous, synthetic canvases offer unique textures and are often budget-friendly.
Choosing the Right Canvases
Now, let’s find the perfect canvas match for your artistic aspirations:
- Pre-Stretched Canvases: These ready-to-go canvases are the instant noodles of the art world. They come in various sizes, and all you need to do is unpack and start painting. Easy-peasy.
- Canvas Panels: If you’re an art-on-the-go kind of person, canvas panels are your best buddies. They’re lightweight, portable, and perfect for unleashing your creativity anywhere and everywhere.
- Canvas Rolls: Feeling like a rebel? Get yourself some canvas rolls. Cut and stretch them onto your desired frame, and boom! You’ve got a custom canvas size that’s as unique as your creativity.
What Do You Need?
Alright, let’s gather your artistic arsenal. Here’s what you’ll need to embark on your creative journey:
- Acrylic Paints: A colourful palette of acrylic paints will get your creation started. Choose your favourite shades and get ready to paint the town… or canvas.
- Acrylic Paint Brushes: Like a band with different instruments, you’ll need an assortment of brushes. Grab a variety of sizes and shapes so you can be prepared for whatever you decide to paint.
- Art Materials: Time to get creative. Palette knives, sponges, or even those old toothbrushes collecting dust in your bathroom drawer can be transformed into tools of artistic expression. Embrace the unexpected.
- Stretcher Bars or Wooden Frames: It’s time to give your canvas a sturdy backbone. Choose the size that fits your vision, stretch your canvas, and get ready to create a masterpiece that’ll make heads turn.
- Frame It Up: Want to add a touch of sophistication to your masterpiece? Consider framing it, because your masterpiece deserves to be hung in The Louvre – or your home. A wooden frame is a popular option among most artists. You can also paint your wooden frame a certain colour to match your painting.
- Gesso: The secret weapon of artists. Gesso acts as the primer for your canvas, preparing it for all the colours you’re daring to play with. So don’t forget to give your canvas a gesso coat before starting.
FAQs
Is Acrylic Painting Hard?
Not at all! Acrylic painting is a care-free activity filled with colours, laughter, and maybe a few happy accidents along the way. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, acrylics are here to make your artistic journey as smooth as a paintbrush gliding across the canvas. No talent necessary, as we like to say.
How Long Does Acrylic Paint Last on Canvas?
When treated with love and displayed away from harsh elements, your acrylic masterpiece can last for decades. So go ahead and create with confidence, knowing that your acrylic print will stand the test of time (or as long as you want it to last).
When Should I Use Acrylic Paint?
The answer is simple: whenever you want! Acrylic paint is incredibly versatile and can be used on various surfaces like canvas, paper, wood, or even your neighbour’s old rocking chair (with permission, of course).
Can I Mix Acrylic Paints?
Absolutely! Mixing acrylic paints is a fundamental part of the artistic process. Don’t be afraid to get adventurous with your colours on your palette.
Do I Need to Water Acrylic Paint Down?
Not necessarily. The choice is entirely yours. If you want a more transparent and watercolour-like effect, adding a little water to your acrylic paint can do the trick. But if you prefer a thicker consistency, you can use the paint straight from the tube. The beauty of acrylics lies in their versatility, so do experiment and find the perfect balance that suits your artistic vision.
Book a Paint and Sip Session with Pinot & Picasso Today!
Anyone can be an artist, and we’d love to show you. Enjoy step-by-step guidance from our artists that will help you create a masterpiece that will soon become wall art for you to hang up at home. With a range of sessions and mediums, there’s no talent necessary when it comes to canvas print at our paint and sip studios. Try it for yourself and find your local Pinot & Picasso studio today.
What is art journaling? A guide for any skill level
by olivia
What is art journaling? A guide for any skill level - Pinot & Picasso
Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, we’ve got the perfect guide to unleash your creativity and dive into the captivating realm of art journaling. So, grab your paint brushes, prepare your creative pages, and let’s get ready to start an art journal.
What is art journaling?
What is art journaling, you ask? Well, it’s a delightful fusion of drawing, painting, writing, and creating within the pages of an art journal. An art journal is where you can freely explore self-expression and let your imagination run wild. You don’t need to be a skilled artist to start art journaling. It’s all about embracing the joy of art, exploring your own creativity and taking time out of everyday life to reflect..
Do I need to be skilled to start art journaling?
Absolutely not! Art journaling is an avenue for self-expression and exploration, regardless of your drawing or painting skills. It’s a space where you can freely unleash your creativity and dive into the world of art. Your art journal becomes a sanctuary to experiment, play, and let your imagination soar. So, forget about the notion of being “skilled” and embrace your feelings through the pages of your art journal. It’s all about trusting the process and allowing your art to reflect your unique journey.
Why should I start art journaling?
1. You can express yourself through art journaling
Art journaling is your personal portal to self-expression. Dive into a world of vibrant colours, where you can paint your feelings onto the pages, journal your own thoughts with artistic flair, and craft images that bring your daily experiences to life. It’s like a visual diary that captures the essence of your unique journey. So grab your brush and let your art journal become a canvas for your innermost thoughts and emotions.
2. It is a form of self care
Amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life, art journaling can become your tranquil oasis (sounds fancy, huh?). It’s a whole art form full of self-care that allows you to escape the chaos and find solace in the strokes of your brush. It becomes a focal point where you can pour your ideas onto the page and let words dance with self awareness. Your art journal becomes a sanctuary, a place where you can nurture your soul and embrace the therapeutic power of creativity.
3. There are NO rules
Here’s the best part about having your own art journal: art journaling has no rules. It’s a whimsical playground where the most important thing is to let your creativity run wild. Start creating without fear or hesitation. Explore daring ideas, experiment with unconventional techniques, and make your art journal truly your own. It’s a space where your imagination reigns supreme, and the possibilities are as vast as your artistic spirit.
4. It is not a costly process
Who says art has to break the bank? Art journaling is a budget-friendly process that doesn’t require fancy supplies or costly tools. Raid your kitchen cabinets, repurpose household items, and make use of simple, affordable paper. Your art journaling journey will come to life with the magic of everyday materials. So unleash your resourcefulness and discover the joy of creating without blowing your budget.
What do I need to start my art journal?
Ready to dive into the world of art journaling? Let’s gather the essentials to get started. First, arm yourself with a variety of art materials. Think coloured pencils, paint, and brushes—the tools that will bring your artistic visions to life. Consider investing in a mixed media art journaling option, as it allows for endless creativity across different mediums. You can also opt for a visual diary or a composition notebook if you’re really feeling creative.
Now, let’s explore some unique additions to spice up your art journal. Dig through your shelves and give old textbooks a second chance to shine within the pages of your journal. Spray inks can add a touch of magic, while rubber stamps offer intricate details and texture. Remember to choose thick paper, providing a sturdy canvas for your creations. And don’t forget the versatile acrylic paint and art foam, allowing you to add depth and dimension to your artwork.
With your art materials in hand, your imagination has no limit. Unleash your creativity, embrace the joy of self-expression, and watch as your art journal becomes a vivid reflection of your artistic spirit. We can’t wait to see what you do with your art journal.
Things to consider before starting the art journaling process:
1. What size do I want my art journal to be?
It’s like choosing the perfect canvas for your creative aspirations. Do you want it to be compact and portable, ready to accompany you on artistic adventures? Or do you prefer a more generous size, allowing your ideas to sprawl freely across the pages? The choice is yours. Find the size that feels just right for you. There’s no wrong answer here.
2.What type of paper should I use?
Art journals are often chosen by artists based on the paper found inside travel journals. Thick, sturdy paper steps up to the challenge, providing a reliable foundation for your creative ideas. It’s like a trusted sidekick, ready to handle the weight of paints, pens, and collages with ease. So opt for thicker paper and bid adieu to artistic mishaps. Your creations will thank you for the solid support!
3. What is your personal style? How do you aim to express yourself?
Your art journal inspiration and creative process is unique, just like you. How do you aim to express yourself through your unique creative process? Are you drawn to bold, abstract strokes? Or do intricate details and delicate line work? Embrace your inner Picasso and let the pen, paintbrush or other arty materials guide you. Your art journal is the perfect stage to showcase your individual style and bring your artistic visions to life.
4. What do you want to achieve through this creative outlet?
At the heart of it all, what do you hope to achieve through art journaling? Is it a sanctuary of solace and self-reflection, where your journal becomes a therapeutic escape? Or perhaps you seek to explore new artistic horizons, pushing the boundaries of your creative prowess? Whatever your goal may be, let your art journal become the vessel for self-discovery and artistic growth. The possibilities are as vast and vibrant as the colours on your palette.
How do I get started? What are the steps?
1. Gather your supplies
It’s time to unleash your creativity and take that first art journal step. Gather your supplies by grabbing your journals, brushes, pens, paints, and all the goodies you need for your journaling.
2. Choose a space
Choose a spot that will be your creative haven. For example, consider your kitchen table. It’s where culinary magic happens, of course, but now it can also be transformed into the perfect canvas for your art journaling. Set up shop, claim your space, and grab a snack for your journaling while you’re there.
3. Set aside time. Consistency is crucial!
Consistency is key. Set aside dedicated time to create pages that will make art journalists and other artists everywhere envious. Whether it’s a few minutes or a couple of hours, make it a ritual.
4. Experiment with different techniques and mediums
Experiment with different techniques and mediums to create a visual masterpiece. Grab those coloured pencils and make them dance on the page. Dabble in paints, express yourself through drawings and writing, and even sprinkle a bit of collage magic with the help of magazines. The artistic world is your oyster, so let your imagination run wild. There are no rules with your art journal.
5. Start small
Embrace the blank page; a fresh canvas brimming with endless possibilities. Start small, with a single stroke, a tiny doodle, or a captivating word. Before you know it, your art journal will be a vibrant tapestry of your creative spirit. So don’t be scared of the blank space – it’ll become whatever you desire it to be in no time.
Struggling to get started? Here are some prompts to help you:
1. Use your favourite song lyric as inspiration
Imagine this: your favourite song lyric becomes the ultimate muse for your art journaling adventures? We like the sound of that. Take inspiration from the rhythm and song lyrics, and watch as your art journal pages groove to the beats of your imagination. It’s music meeting art.
2. Illustrate a dream or goal and reflect on the steps you can take to achieve it
Illustrate your wildest dreams or ambitious goals, and then take a moment to dive deeper. Reflect on the steps you can take to transform those dreams into reality. Let your art journal become the canvas where your aspirations come to life, and allow yourself to visualise the path towards achieving them. It’s a powerful combination of artistic expression and self-reflection.
3. What is a challenge you have overcome? How did you go about it
We’ve all faced our fair share of challenges, haven’t we? Think about a particular situation that put your resilience to the test. How did you conquer that obstacle? What strategies did you employ to overcome the odds? Showcase your triumph in your art journal.
Use colours, shapes, and images to capture the essence of your journey and celebrate the strength that resides within you. It’s a testament to your resilience and a reminder of your ability to rise above any challenge.
Find a Pinot & Picasso studio near you!
So, are you ready to start your art journaling adventure? We bet you are! But before you embark on the first layer of this colourful journey, you can find some more inspiration at a Pinot & Picasso studio near you. They’re experts in bringing out the artist in you and creating a vibrant atmosphere where creativity thrives. Visit our website to find a studio and dive deeper into the world of art.