Throw an Amazing Art Party at Home (on Any Budget)

Last Updated on February 19, 2023 by Tracey McGrath

Looking for a fun and creative way to entertain at home? An art party at home is a great way to add some unique pizzazz to an evening without having to break the bank. Here are some tips and ideas on how to set up an unforgettable art extravaganza right in your own home!

Choose a Creative Theme & Set the Tone 

Choosing a unique theme for your art party is the perfect way to make it stand out. Pick something that reflects your personal style and inspires the creativity of your guests. 

You could choose a theme such as remaking the masters, creating an art journal or an evening to get “messy”.  Think about the kind of atmosphere you want to create to set the tone for a fun art party at home. My favorite theme is Mindful Art, which is using art as a form of meditation and self-discovery. Check out my article What is Mindful Art? to learn more!   

I like to incorporate mindful art projects into my art parties.  I choose simple activities that guests can use to be present in the process of creating.  And they also have a beautiful finished product to take home! Check out some examples in my article Therapeutic Art: 3 simple 20-minute Projects!

“But unless we are creators we are not fully alive.”

-Madeleine L’Engle

Create Art-Inspired Snacks & Beverages 

Appetizers, snacks, and drinks are key ingredients for keeping your guests happy during an art party. For a special touch, pick some snacks and beverages that reference the arts or themes of the evening. 

You can get creative with colors and foods!  Serve colorful dishes like rainbow fruit salad or French macarons.   Create art-inspired cocktails.   Bake cookies that look like paint palettes.  The possibilities are endless!    

The food can also be an essential part of the creative activities.   You could include an activity to decorate their cups or make paper straws.  Decorating cookies is super fun and creative. Or snacks can simply serve as a much-needed break for noshing and connecting with friends while the paint dries. 

Keep it simple so everyone can enjoy a snack and get back to creating.  Easy-to-eat finger foods like nuts, cheese and crackers, and fruit are my go-to’s!  

Stock Up on Supplies for Your Art Party at Home 

Make sure you have plenty of supplies for your guests to get creative as soon as they arrive. Depending on the type of art party, stock up on basic materials such as watercolor paper, markers, paintbrushes, scissors and more. 

Once you decide on your activities for the art party at home you may need more specific materials. 

It’s always a good idea to provide guests with more supplies than they need.  It can help make the evening, even more, fun and creative!

Get Creative with Your Art Party Decorations 

Decorating doesn’t have to be expensive or involved.  If you’re crafty, create your own decorations.  Or shop thrift stores and yard sales for unique pieces that can add a special touch to your celebration. 

Instead of buying new items and decorations, consider repurposing everyday objects.  Again keep it simple.  A few wildflowers in a mason jar evoke simplicity and sweetness.  Some balloons and a colorful banner create a sense of whimsy and fun.  

Think about the type of mood you want to create and find decorations that bring up that feeling in you.  

“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”

-Arthur Ashe

Put Together an Art Party Activity Plan

Most importantly you need to choose which art activities to do for your art party at home.  Again keep it simple and don’t overcomplicate.  The idea is to invite others to get involved and feel creative.  

Depending on your guests’ skillset and interests, choose simple or complex activities.  Do you want this art party at home to be about connection or more about relaxation?  Maybe you want guests to learn a new skill that you’re excited to teach others.  Select a reasonable time frame that works for you and your guests.    

Choose easy activities like drawing with colored pencils or painting pottery.  Or maybe something more interactive.   Making balloon animals, block prints, or crafting origami pieces. For some great ideas, check out the amazing selection of classes on SkillShare! They have classes ranging from watercolors to photography to floral design.  

Having a planned activity ensures that everyone won’t just sit around and chat.  They’ll get to join in creating unique works of art!  

I hope this inspires you to throw a fun art party at home with your friends and family! Creative practices like these can help you to relax, feel productive and express yourself. When you inspire others to get creative the whole world benefits!

Let’s Connect!

If you’d like support creating a mindful art practice, then book a session with me here! Or check out my digital course, Becoming Blissful with Mindful Art, for a complete system created to help you have more mindful moments!

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