Parking is limited downtown Bloomington.  We do not have a parking lot; it is public street parking. Please utilize the parking garage located on Center St. between Monroe and Market - plan accordingly.  Street parking MON-FRI prior to 6pm is only 90 min.   PLEASE PLAN TO ARRIVE 15MIN PRIOR TO THE START OF CLASS; as painting begins promptly at class start time!  The studio will be open 30min prior to the start of class. Thank you!!

 

About Us

About

Merlot and A Masterpiece — Bloomington-Normal's Wine & Paint Studio

 

Merlot and A Masterpiece was founded in June 2010 — the first wine & paint studio of its kind in Bloomington-Normal.  Located in the heart of downtown Bloomington, we offer a step-by-step sip & painting class designed to help escape the day-to-day, by creating a unique, fun, and creative environment to give everyone the opportunity to explore their own artistic talents.

In January 2020, Merlot and A Masterpiece went under new ownership by Jason and Melissa Sorensen.  Jason and Melissa are excited to continue the opportunity to entertain and share the love of the arts that Merlot and A Masterpiece has brought to the community!

Jason is a life-long Bloomington resident, and a proud Bloomington High School Raider.  He also attended Lincoln College to continue his baseball career in the early 1990s.  Jason is currently a union electrician of 25 years and counting.   Although not an accomplished artist, he is thrilled to help continue the great experiences Merlot and A Masterpiece has to offer.

Melissa is a Downers Grove native and has been an active Bloomington-Normal resident for 21 years. She attended Illinois State University where she studied Biology & Chemistry. Melissa has worked many years serving fellow pet lovers at Prairie Oak Veterinary Center. She is a former coach at Illini Elite Volleyball Club. Melissa is currently an accomplished Realtor with REMAX Rising.  Art has been her constant passion.  Through commissions and donation work, she has always had a brush in hand while studying art from a young age.  Melissa respects and encourages what the arts have brought into her life,  and is eager to share the love that painting has brought her. 

Wine & Paint Classes
We offer a variety of art class designed to help escape the day-to-day, by creating a unique, fun, and creative environment to give everyone the opportunity to explore their own artistic talents. Our everyday classes are Step-by-Step, but we also offer Pick Your Own, Paint Your Pet and so much more!

 

Fun and Creative Vibe

 

Welcome to Merlot and a Masterpiece

 

Bring our own wine and a snack. We’ll have everything else for you to paint your Masterpiece.

 

 

 

 

 

Look at these adorable faces -  a sweet birthday surprise! 

Awesome Job - a fun family get-together!!

 

PickYour Own - Everyone get's to do what they want!

What a fun group!!

 

 

Fun, relaxing environment!

 GreatPlace for Date Night! 

 

 

 

Great work ladies! Jason is always willing to help!