Whether you’re new to painting or just love admiring art, understanding the most popular styles can help you find your creative groove. From dreamy brushstrokes to bold color blocks, here are the top painting styles you should know – and try. Come discover your favorite style at a Painting and Vino paint and sip night!
1. Realism
Looks just like real life—artists focus on detail, shadow, and accuracy. This style is focused on real-world detail.
Perfect for: Painting landscapes, still life, or portraits that wow with precision.
2. Impressionism
Think soft brushstrokes, glowing light, and visible texture. Famous artists like Monet made this dreamy style shine. Feel the light with this style of painting.
Perfect for: Painting sunsets, flowers, or water scenes with a peaceful, expressive feel.
3. Expressionism
Full of bold color and emotion—what you feel is more important than what you see. Embrace your emotions when you paint in this style.
Perfect for: Letting loose and showing your mood through wild colors and brushstrokes.
4. Cubism
Shapes, angles, and multiple perspectives all rolled into one. Picasso was a big name here. A style that is structured yet fun.
Perfect for: Breaking up your subject into funky, geometric designs.
5. Surrealism
Like stepping into a dream—unexpected scenes and strange combinations. The more vibrant the dream the better.
Perfect for: Painting the weird and wonderful straight from your imagination.
6. Abstract
No rules, no real-world references—just color, form, and emotion. Enjoy total freedom with this style of painting.
Perfect for: Freestyle creativity and stress-free painting.
7. Pop Art
Inspired by pop culture—bright, graphic, and fun! Think Andy Warhol’s soup cans and comic book vibes.
Perfect for: Bold colors, clean lines, and painting something playful.
At a Painting and Vino paint and sip event, you can explore many of these styles—step by step, brush by brush, glass by glass. Whether you want a dreamy Impressionist landscape or a bold Pop Art portrait, there’s a canvas (and a wine glass) waiting for you.
Check out our events calendar and paint in style – cheers to creativity!
Learn about even more art styles via the article by Artland Magazine: The Most Famous Art Movements and Styles | Artland Magazine
