The Paint Republic

The Paint Republic is taking over Telford's Warehouse on Tuesday 24 November, and it's not a paint class in any traditional sense. If you've ever felt a bit too intimidated by the idea of a formal art lesson, this is more your speed: it's a judgement-free painting evening hosted by a professional artist rather than a teacher, and the whole thing is built around painting, drinking and partying in a group setting.

Here's how it actually works. There's a specific picture chosen for the session, and the artist gives you loose guidance on how to tackle it, but they're not hovering over your shoulder. You're in a relaxed room with music and banter, and free-styling is actively encouraged — so if you want to take the image in a completely different direction, go for it. No experience is necessary, and the whole point is to enjoy the process rather than worry about the result.

After about two hours, everyone takes home a canvas painting to hang on their own wall or give as a gift. The organisers pitch it as a beginner-friendly, social alternative to a typical night out, and it works just as well for a date or a birthday as it does for a hen party or corporate team building. All the materials are provided, so you don't need to bring a thing except yourself.

It's a Tuesday night, which makes it a decent mid-week option if you fancy something a bit different from the usual pub or cinema trip. Tickets are £4, and you'll leave with your own finished canvas at the end.