Do I need prior art experience?

No previous experience is necessary; the workshop is designed for all skill levels.

Are food and drinks included?

Yes, the workshop includes Italian small plates from Topoly's to enjoy during the session.

Can I take my decorated skull home?

Absolutely, your unique decorated skull is yours to keep and display.

Is the workshop suitable for children?

The event is best suited for adults and mature teenagers due to materials and themes.

Where exactly is the workshop held?

At The Old Kennels in Gloucester, providing a historic and comfortable setting.

How do I book a spot?

Reservations are required and can be made by contacting Topoly's directly.

Creative Art Workshop and Italian Bites in Gloucester | Events

Located in the historic town of Gloucester, England, "Brushstrokes and Bruschetta" at Topoly's offers an uncommon blend of artistic expression and culinary delight. This unique workshop invites art enthusiasts and casual creators alike to immerse themselves in a hands-on experience where painting meets Italian cuisine in an inviting setting. Participants craft decorated skulls using a mix of paints and decoupage techniques, guided by a skilled local artist who helps transform simple materials into striking Halloween-themed masterpieces. This creative journey is far more than typical art classes—it’s an occasion to connect with seasonal tradition through personal expression while engaging the palate with carefully curated Italian small plates from Topoly's kitchen.

Situated within The Old Kennels, a venue with its own rich history in Gloucester, the workshop carries a festive vibe rooted in community and craftsmanship. The combination of painting skulls—emblematic of celebration and remembrance—with savory bruschetta and other Italian tidbits creates a memorable sensory experience. Guests often appreciate how the setting elevates the simple act of painting, making it simultaneously social and introspective.

Topoly's stands out as a cultural hub in Gloucester, uniquely linking food and art in a way that enhances local creative life. Whether you're looking to build your artistic skills, enjoy seasonal festivities, or simply indulge in fine flavors while making something special, this workshop offers an engaging afternoon with a distinct regional flavor. It’s an ideal activity for locals and visitors who seek depth beyond ordinary Halloween events, tying heritage, art, and gastronomy together in a warm, accessible environment.

About Paint Pot Parties

Paint Pot Parties is a creative events company based at The Old Kennels in England. The business runs guided painting workshops, pop-up art nights, family sessions and seasonal specials hosted at restaurants, theatres, studios and outdoor venues across the region. Events include family paint and picnic mornings, Paint & Pudding evenings, Paint & Pizza nights, Paint & Sip workshops, kids’ pumpkin and Halloween sessions, decoupage skull workshops, Barre & Brushstrokes and themed community pop-ups.

Workshops are led by experienced artists and therapeutic art coaches, with several sessions explicitly guided by art coach Brydie. Many events are described as suitable for all skill levels and include clear instruction, stencil or traceable options, and supplied materials where noted. Public pop-ups have taken place at venues such as Cotswold Lounge (Chipping Norton), Gupshill Manor (Tewkesbury), Stroud Brewery, Cattivo (Cirencester), Rose & Crown (Redmarley), The Globe (Stonehouse), Brasserie Blanc (Cheltenham), Dunkertons Park, Swan Theatre (Worcester), Topoly's (Gloucester), The Plough (Prestbury), Norton Grounds and other local establishments named in event listings.

Paint Pot Parties programs combine social dining and painting — for example, workshops paired with pizza, bruschetta, brunch or seasonal puddings — and occasional performance-led evenings like the Drag Arty Party. Tickets are offered per event, often with limited availability, and the company promotes engaging, accessible creative experiences for families, friends and community groups.

Booking information and dates are provided per event, and many nights are hosted in partnership with local restaurants, bars, galleries and community clubs. Attendees can expect social atmospheres, step-by-step instruction, and take-home artworks at the end often.