Painting Party at Buena Vista on Feb. 18, 2016

One of Delaware’s most historic estates will host a painting party from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 18, 2016. The event will take place at the Buena Vista Conference Center located at 661 S. Dupont Highway (Route 13), in New Castle, Del. Tickets for the event are $35 and are available in advance only at the Painting Parties, LLC website. No tickets will be sold at the door. For additional information, call 302-323-4430.

The Painting Party will feature a professional artist who will provide guests with step-by-step instruction in creating their own versions of the painting “Whimsical Owl.” Participants will then be able to take their paintings home with them.

No art experience is necessary for the painting party and all supplies will be provided including paints, brushes, canvases, aprons and easels. The only thing that visitors need to bring is a fun attitude! In addition to art instruction, guests will be treated to a variety of catered appetizers and soft drinks.

The main section of the Buena Vista mansion was built between 1845 and 1847 by John M. Clayton, United States secretary of state from 1849 to 1850 under presidents Taylor and Fillmore, and United States senator from 1829 to 1836, 1845 to 1849, and 1853 until his death in 1856. The home later became the residence of C. Douglass Buck, governor of Delaware from 1929 to 1937 and United States senator from 1942 to 1948. Buena Vista and its grounds were donated to the state by the Buck family in 1965 and now serve as a conference center administered by the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs.