The Science Behind Paint & Sip Team Building

# The Science Behind Paint and Sip: Why Creative Team Building Works

Team building has evolved beyond rope courses and icebreaker games. Today, forward-thinking workplaces are recognising the value of shared experiences that encourage creativity, reduce stress, and strengthen human connection. One activity gaining popularity is the ‘paint and sip session’ and research shows there’s good reason why it works so well for corporate teams.

# Creativity as a Team-Building Tool

Studies have shown that creative activities can boost problem solving skills and encourage innovative thinking.

Research from the University of Otago found that engaging in creative tasks outside of work is linked to increased positive emotions and improved performance in the workplace. [1]

In a paint and sip session, team members get the chance to play with colour, shapes, and ideas — a refreshing break that can re-energise their approach to challenges at work.

# Reducing Stress & Building Connections

The act of painting has been shown to lower cortisol levels (the body’s primary stress hormone) and promote relaxation.

 A study published in ‘Art Therapy: Journal of the American Art Therapy Association’ found that just 45 minutes of creative activity significantly reduced stress in participants, regardless of prior artistic experience. [2]

Sharing this calming experience with colleagues creates a relaxed atmosphere where barriers break down, laughter flows, and connections form naturally.

# Encouraging Psychological Safety

Effective teams are built on trust and psychological safety — the confidence that you can share ideas and take risks without fear of judgement.

Because paint and sip sessions don’t require prior artistic skill, everyone starts from the same point. This sense of equality fosters inclusivity and encourages team members to support one another, which mirrors the conditions needed for successful collaboration in the workplace.

# Shared Accomplishment and Lasting Impact

One of the unique benefits of a paint and sip event is that participants leave with a physical reminder of the experience: their artwork. This sense of shared accomplishment — completing something creative together — reinforces team cohesion and leaves a lasting memory that goes beyond the day itself.

Research into experiential learning highlights that shared, non-work activities can strengthen group identity and improve relationships back in the office. [3]

# A Healthier Approach to Team Building

Unlike competitive activities that can sometimes create pressure, paint and sip experiences focus on enjoyment, creativity, and cooperation; they provide a balanced mix of relaxation and engagement — the kind of environment that encourages people to connect on a human level.

For HR managers and business leaders, this makes it an effective, evidence-based approach to improving team wellbeing and workplace culture.

References

[1] Conner, T. S., DeYoung, C. G., & Silvia, P. J. (2018). Everyday creative activity as a path to flourishing. *The Journal of Positive Psychology, 13*(2), 181–189.

 

[2] Kaimal, G., Ray, K., & Muniz, J. (2016). Reduction of Cortisol Levels and Participants’ Responses Following Art Making. *Art Therapy: Journal of the American Art Therapy Association, 33*(2), 74–80.

 

[3] Kolb, D. A. (1984). *Experiential Learning: Experience as the Source of Learning and Development.* Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall.