Raw Canvas

Growing up, art was always an integral part of my life but unfortunately my creative pursuits were put on hold once I entered the world of academia. That's why I adore Raw Canvas, which is part wine bar and part art studio, allowing patrons a unique "art and social" experience.

Located in the heart of Yaletown, you can stop by Raw Canvas for just a drink, or also one of their signature tasting plates ($17). I particularly love the wild boar and rosemary and the smokehouse cheddar. Seriously drooling just thinking about them!

Once you've eaten, you can make your way down to the art studio where you're provided with all the equipment you'll need to make your very own masterpiece. Though I enjoy painting it's never been my favourite (pencil sketching is my specialty) because it can get messy pretty quickly... by coming to Raw Canvas, you don't have to worry about any of that! They provide you with brushes, buckets for water, easels, palettes, and a huge array of acrylic paints. And for those less artistically inclined, a resident artist is also available to provide tips and advice.

An evening painting at Raw Canvas is not the cheapest (prices start at $55 for a small canvas up to $170 for a large canvas), but I think it's a fun idea for a girls night or date. In fact, I had been to Raw Canvas last year with a friend and came back this time with my boyfriend.

I really wanted to make a companion piece to the one I painted last time and was pretty pleased with how it turned out (my first painting looks like this except it's blue-themed).

Can you believe my boyfriend has never painted before except in elementary school? I thought his storm painting turned out great!

Location: 1046 Hamilton Street, Vancouver, BC
Website: http://www.rawcanvas.com