Quietly Queer's Experiential Art Session: Paint, Wine & Connect

A curated art + connection experience for LGBTQ people and allies who prefer something a little quieter and low-pressure.
About this Event

About

Founded in August 2025, Quietly Queer is a social group for the SF Bay Area with more than a thousand members, offering both free and paid gatherings designed around connection without the pressure of traditional nightlife.

This is one of our premium experiences: a more intentionally produced, limited-capacity event that brings together social programming, art, wine, and a private studio experience.

The Event

Quietly Queer: Experiential Art Session is a curated art + connection experience for LGBTQ people and allies who prefer something a little quieter and low-pressure.

The experience combines playful social programming, guided acrylic painting on wood with Mexico City–born Bay Area artist , wine, music, and a collaborative art project that connects both gatherings.

Across two Oakland gatherings, you'll have opportunities to connect with other people without forced introductions, networking, or the pressure to be "on." Whether you're feeling social, looking to meet new people, or would rather sit back and listen, you're welcome here. Quietly Queer's organizer will be present throughout both gatherings to help guide the group, facilitate connection, and keep things moving naturally.

Why two gatherings? Because QQ is about helping people build friendships through repeat get-togethers, rather than expecting meaningful connections to happen in a single night.

The first gathering will be a pre-class get-together on Saturday, October 10, from 1–3 PM at Black Diamond Cafe, 6399 Christie Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608. We'll grab coffee, chat, and relax, with optional exercises designed to help you notice the space around you and create natural opportunities for connection with each other. Coffee and food aren't included in the ticket.

The second gathering will be Saturday, October 17, from 5-8 PM at Mighty Mighty Studio, 480 23rd St, Oakland, CA 94612. This private art session will bring the group together for guided painting, wine, music, and a collaborative creative project.

The experience is limited to 16 people and costs $65, which includes the private studio session, art supplies, wine, and programming. More than 90% of the ticket price goes directly toward the artist and private studio space. Take a look at the photos below to get a feel for where we’ll be spending the evening!

We also welcome you to come hang out with us at one of our ongoing free Quietly Queer gatherings. They're a great way to keep seeing people you've met, meet new friends, and stay connected with the community.