Newry's Art Studio 23 celebrates six years as NI’s first ‘paint and sip’ studio

It’s a creative concept that has since inspired a movement across the country.

Founded by artist and entrepreneur Frankie Bannon, Art Studio 23 held its inaugural session on June 5, 2019 in Newry. The idea was sparked years earlier in Sydney, Australia, where Frankie first hosted relaxed painting nights with friends. Upon returning home, she brought the concept to life for the first time in Ireland.

Even earlier, in March 2019, Art Studio 23 introduced Ireland’s first acrylic pour workshops - another artistic first across Ireland. Today, the studio offers everything from ceramic glazing and clay workshops, Paint and Sip, to private events, school programs, public classes, large-scale community art projects and corporate events.

Over the past six years, Art Studio 23 has facilitated thousands of creative events across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Its client list includes the NHS, ASOS, SuperDry, Channel 5, Volkswagen, and countless local schools, councils, charities, and private groups.

“There was nothing like it at the time,” said Frankie Bannon, founder of Art Studio 23. “It began with a paintbrush and a bottle of wine, just a simple idea driven by a love of art and bringing people together. It has now grown into a vibrant, inclusive space where people of all ages can explore creativity, build confidence, and feel part of something meaningful. That’s something really special.”

As Art Studio 23 marks this milestone, it continues to lead the way in making art joyful, social, and accessible to all.