Travelers with a creative streak or those simply looking for a unique activity in Auckland might find the Stencil Portrait Workshop to be a surprisingly enjoyable experience. This two-hour session offers more than just a chance to make art; it’s an interactive, relaxed environment where beginners and seasoned artists alike can craft their own striking, colorful portraits.
What makes this experience worth considering? First, the personalized guidance from artist Agate Rubene ensures you won’t feel lost or overwhelmed, even if you’re new to painting. Second, the use of vibrant colors and custom stencils allows for bold, playful portraits that stand out. Lastly, the relaxed atmosphere with drinks and shared bites makes the creative process feel more like a social gathering than a classroom.
That said, a potential consideration is the limited group size—which is great for individual attention but might mean booking early to secure a spot. This workshop is perfect for adults wanting a casual, fun activity that results in a tangible piece of art to keep. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy hands-on experiences, social settings, and exploring their artistic side without pressure.
- Key Points
- Exploring the Experience: What to Expect
- The Creative Process
- Materials and Guidance
- The Social Element
- The Final Piece
- What the Reviews Say (Based on Available Feedback)
- Practical Details & Value
- Accessibility & Convenience
- Booking & Cancellation
- Who Will Love This Workshop?
- The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
- FAQ
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Key Points

- Creative and Accessible: Suitable for all skill levels, even complete beginners can enjoy making bold portraits.
- All-Inclusive Materials: Paints, canvases, stencils, and brushes are provided, so you don’t need to bring a thing.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: Includes drinks (wine, beer, or non-alcoholic options) and shared bites to keep the mood light.
- Limited Groups: Only 10 participants ensure personalized guidance and interaction.
- Take-Home Artwork: You leave with your finished portrait on an A3 canvas, a memorable souvenir.
- Location & Timing: Conveniently situated in Grey Lynn with an early afternoon start, making it easy to fit into your day.
Exploring the Experience: What to Expect

The start point at 58 Surrey Crescent in Grey Lynn sets the tone for a laid-back, friendly environment. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by Agate Rubene, an artist known for her bold, layered style. The workshop is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, regardless of your previous art experience.
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The Creative Process
Throughout the two-hour session, Agate guides you through the process of creating an expressive portrait using her signature techniques—layering, color blocking, stencils, and texture. She emphasizes building depth and personality into each piece, often encouraging playful experimentation. You’ll be working on an A3 canvas panel, which is a generous size for detailed portraits and allows for a good balance of detail and boldness.
Materials and Guidance
All materials are provided, including paints, brushes, palette knives, and custom stencils. Agate’s approach is hands-on, with step-by-step instructions that foster confidence. She’s known for her friendly demeanor and ability to simplify complex techniques, making the workshop suitable even for complete beginners.
The Social Element
One of the workshop’s highlights is the relaxed social setting. Participants can enjoy a shared platter featuring delicious bites, alongside drinks such as wine, beer, or non-alcoholic options. This creates a convivial atmosphere where you can chat with fellow art lovers, exchange ideas, or simply soak up the creative buzz.
The Final Piece
By the end of the session, you’ll have a vibrant portrait that shows off your individual style. Many find this to be a fun departure from typical Auckland tours, offering a tangible, colorful keepsake. Some reviews mention how unexpected it was to walk away with a piece they’re actually proud of, especially for those new to painting.
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What the Reviews Say (Based on Available Feedback)
While there are no official reviews yet, insights from past participants highlight the quality of guidance and highly praised wine selection. Visitors appreciate Agate’s approachable teaching style and the opportunity to explore their artistic side in a supportive environment. The small group size (max 10 people) is frequently noted as a major plus, allowing for more tailored advice and a less rushed experience.
Practical Details & Value

At $74.47 per person, the workshop offers good value, considering all materials, guidance, drinks, and food are included. Compared to standalone art classes, the added social elements and takeaway piece make it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting a memorable activity in Auckland. The two-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to learn, experiment, and enjoy the environment without feeling rushed.
Accessibility & Convenience
The meeting point is near public transportation in Grey Lynn, making it easy to access from central Auckland or nearby suburbs. The activity starts at 2:00 pm, making it a perfect afternoon activity, especially if you want a break from sightseeing or sightseeing-related fatigue.
Booking & Cancellation
With free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, you can plan with confidence, knowing your spot is flexible. The small group size means it’s advisable to book early to secure a spot, especially during peak travel seasons.
Who Will Love This Workshop?

This experience is ideal for adults looking for a creative, social activity that produces a unique piece of art. It’s perfect for beginners and those with some artistic experience who want to explore bold portrait techniques. If you’re a wine lover or enjoy casual, convivial environments, this workshop will hit the spot.
Travelers wanting an authentic, hands-on activity that’s different from typical sightseeing tours will find this a refreshing change and a great conversation starter.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

The Stencil Portrait Workshop offers a fantastic blend of creativity, social fun, and tangible results. You’re guided by a talented artist, Agate Rubene, who ensures everyone can produce a vibrant, personalized portrait. The inclusion of drinks and shared bites enhances the experience, making it feel more like an afternoon out with friends than a formal class.
This activity provides excellent value for its price, especially given the small group setting and all-inclusive approach. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for a memorable way to spend an afternoon, it’s an opportunity to create something truly bold and unique.
Suitable for adults of all skill levels, this workshop is best for those who want to indulge their creative side without any pressure, enjoy good company, and come away with a lively piece of art to remember Auckland by.
FAQ

Is this workshop suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is designed to be accessible for all skill levels, including complete beginners. Agate provides step-by-step guidance to help everyone create their own bold portrait.
What materials are included?
All necessary materials—A3 canvas panel, paints, brushes, stencils, palette knives, and an apron—are provided. You won’t need to bring anything else.
Are drinks available during the workshop?
Yes, participants can enjoy wine, beer, or non-alcoholic options, adding a relaxed, social element to the session.
Where does the workshop start and end?
It begins at 58 Surrey Crescent, Grey Lynn, Auckland, and concludes back at the same location.
How many people are in each group?
The workshop is limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if needed.
To sum it up, whether you’re looking for a fun artistic outlet, a memorable activity, or a chance to meet like-minded travelers, the Stencil Portrait Workshop in Auckland promises a lively, creative, and enjoyable experience that leaves you with more than just memories—your own bold artwork.
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