When you think of a stag do, a pastel painting workshop probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind, and that’s exactly what made this one so special.
Recently, we had the pleasure of hosting and teaching a bespoke Pastel Paint & Sip workshop for a stag group, designed as a surprise for the groom-to-be. Instead of the usual activities, the group gathered for an afternoon of laughter, creativity, and a genuinely meaningful shared experience painting portraits of the stag himself, reimagined in the style of Pierre-Auguste Renoir.
A Surprise with Heart
The workshop was planned in secret, with the stag completely unaware of what was waiting for him. When he arrived and realised the group would be painting him, the reaction was priceless; equal parts shock, amusement, and genuine delight.
From that moment on, the energy in the room shifted. The session became not just about painting, but about celebrating friendship, shared memories, and the occasion itself. Each artwork became a playful, affectionate tribute, no two portraits alike, but all capturing something recognisable and personal.
Why Renoir?
Renoir’s work is known for its warmth, softness, and human connection, qualities that made it the perfect reference point for this group.
Rather than copying a single painting, participants were introduced to key Renoir-inspired ideas:
Soft, blended colour transitions
Warm flesh tones built from layered pastels
Loose, expressive mark-making
A focus on light and atmosphere rather than detail
This approach kept the workshop relaxed and accessible, even for complete beginners, while still giving everyone a clear artistic direction.
A Pastel Paint & Sip Designed for Everyone
No prior art experience was needed. The session was structured to gently guide the group through the process:
Warm-up exercises to loosen up and get comfortable with pastels
Simple portrait structure, focusing on proportions without pressure
Building colour in layers, Renoir-style
Encouraging individuality, humour, and personal touches
With drinks flowing and music in the background, the atmosphere was light, social, and full of laughter. Painting became a shared experience rather than a performance, exactly what a Paint & Sip should be.
The Results: Joyful, Personal, Unforgettable
By the end of the workshop, the walls were filled with portraits that ranged from tender and painterly to wonderfully irreverent. What mattered most wasn’t technical perfection, but the personality and affection in each piece.
For the stag, it was a genuinely moving moment, seeing himself through the eyes of his closest friends, interpreted in colour, line, and laughter. Each artwork became a keepsake, far more meaningful than a novelty prop or a forgotten night out.
