We’re now seven months into a recently unprecedented pandemic. Socializing is different in 2020 than most have experienced in their lifetimes. Many zoos are struggling due to having their doors closed for three months earlier this year. Some continue to struggle with attendance. However, zoos are still trying to find ways to provide animal-related entertainment, and also to bring in some funds. Enter virtual painting parties.
Some zoos were hosting in-person painting parties pre-pandemic. These would possibly include a visit from an ambassador animal at the zoo. Many zoos are new to this space. Virtual painting parties are easy to host, as they require just an instructor and a limited amount of supplies. Painting subjects could include live animals or a previously painted piece of art.
Our family really enjoys painting parties, and we’ve taken an interest in ones put on by zoos. Here is a list of upcoming virtual painting parties that you can sign up for and “attend” with your family from your house!
September Events
- Zoo Atlanta – Virtual Art Gone Wild
6:30-8:30pm Eastern, Wednesday, September 30, 2020
This virtual event costs $42, and includes an art kit, along with a 30% discount to the zoo. The painting is a lovable sloth hanging from a branch. An artist from Sips n Strokes studios will provide step-by-step instructions. A penciled sketch is included in the provided materials along with written out instructions.
October Events
- National Aviary – Brushes & Birds
11am-12:45pm Eastern, Saturday October 3, 2020
This virtual event is $25 per person. The painting is of a Red-billed Hornbill. After a view of the bird’s habitat for inspiration, an instructional painting class will be led by Maria DeSimone Prascak of Maria’s Ideas. Guests can use their own supplies (a list of colors is provided in the link). If preferred, guests can purchase a painting kit for $10 (pickup is free, shipping is an extra cost).
November Events
- Cincinnati Zoo – Rico the Porcupine Painting Party – Boop the Snoot
1-3pm Eastern, Saturday, November 7, 2020
This virtual event is $29 per person. Guests can use their own supplies (a list of colors is provided in the link). If preferred, guests can purchase a painting kit for $10 (pickup is free, shipping is an extra cost). This event is led by an instructor from Pinot’s Pallete.
- National Aviary – Brushes & Birds
11am-12:45pm Eastern, Saturday November 14, 2020
This virtual event is $25 per person. The painting is of a flamingo. After a view of the bird’s habitat for inspiration, an instructional painting class will be led by Maria DeSimone Prascak of Maria’s Ideas. Guests can use their own supplies (a list of colors is provided in the link). If preferred, guests can purchase a painting kit for $10 (pickup is free, shipping is an extra cost).
- Akron Zoo – Color Me Excited
6-8:30pm Eastern, Saturday November 14, 2020
This event is $15 per device. The zoo encourages families painting together to pay for one registration. Families using multiple devices will need a second registration. This event will feature an instructor-led macaw painting session. Also included are visits from a zoo keeper, animal guests, and a live painting demonstration by an animal during intermission.
December Events
- National Aviary – Brushes & Birds
11am-12:45pm Eastern, Saturday December 19, 2020
This virtual event is $25 per person. The painting is of an African Penguin. After a view of the bird’s habitat for inspiration, an instructional painting class will be led by Maria DeSimone Prascak of Maria’s Ideas. Guests can use their own supplies (a list of colors is provided in the link). If preferred, guests can purchase a painting kit for $10 (pickup is free, shipping is an extra cost).
Check back frequently for more virtual painting parties. Looking for some stand-by artistic fun? Check out our Zoo Coloring Pages for some animal art opportunities!
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