Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124

Explore Chicago's vibrant neon art scene with a fun, beginner-friendly glow workshop. Create glowing canvases in a lively, guided studio experience.

Travelers seeking a memorable, hands-on artistic experience in Chicago will find the Glow Workshop at Studio W.I.P. offers a playful, colorful break from traditional sightseeing. This session allows you to channel your inner artist amid lively, blacklight-lit surroundings, creating a glowing masterpiece that’s sure to be a conversation starter. We were impressed by how accessible and fun this activity is, especially for those new to art or just looking for a relaxed night out.
Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make you feel at ease regardless of your skill level, and the unique neon glow effect that transforms your work into a vibrant piece of art. That said, it’s a relatively short session, lasting about an hour and 15 minutes, so if you’re craving a full-day adventure, this might feel like a quick pit stop.
It’s best suited for groups of friends, couples, or anyone interested in a creative and social night. If you’re a fan of colorful, interactive experiences or want something different from your usual dinner or bar crawl, this workshop is worth considering.
You might also be interested in these Chicago experiences
The Glow Workshop is a blacklight-powered art session where you’ll create a 12×16″ canvas masterpiece using vibrant neon paints. Guided by professional street art instructors, you’ll learn the basics of neon painting while having plenty of room for your creativity to shine. The blacklight makes your artwork come alive, adding an exciting dimension to your craft.
This experience takes place in a lively, inviting studio environment designed to foster fun and experimentation. Unlike traditional painting classes, the focus here is on colorful expression in a darkened setting, turning your canvas into a luminous artwork that looks striking in the dark.

The activity starts at 1047 W Lawrence Ave, Chicago, easily accessible by public transit. Since the activity ends back at the same location, it’s simple to plan your evening around it. The studio’s central location means you can easily combine it with other Chicago attractions, making it a flexible addition to your itinerary.

The workshop runs for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, which makes it ideal for an evening activity without a huge time commitment. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by your friendly guides—experts in street art—who will demonstrate techniques, answer questions, and provide encouragement.
You’ll then pick up neon paints and start working on your canvas. The instructors emphasize that beginners are very welcome, and many reviews highlight how helpful and patient the staff are. One traveler noted, “Super beginner friendly! We went on a Sunday night and it was super chill and the teacher was super helpful,” which captures the relaxed vibe you can expect.
Throughout the session, expect plenty of laughter, some lighthearted competition, and lots of colorful paint flying around in the blacklight. The studio’s lighting transforms your work into a glowing spectacle, perfect for Instagram or a fun keepsake.

While no prior art skills are necessary, the instructors will introduce basic techniques to help you get started. Whether you want to sketch out designs first or just dive in with spontaneous strokes, you’ll find plenty of room for your personal style.
The neon paints are easy to work with, and the blacklight makes even simple designs pop spectacularly. Some participants have expressed surprise at how professional-looking their paintings turn out, despite initial doubts. It’s all about having fun and letting your creativity run free.

At $40 per person, the workshop offers a value-packed experience. Considering the uniqueness of neon art creation and the guided instruction, it’s a reasonably priced activity for a memorable night out. When you factor in the fun and the ability to take home your glowing canvas, the cost feels justified.
The session is also free to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility should your plans change last minute—a considerate policy for travelers with unpredictable schedules.

One reviewer shared, “Went with a friend and we both had a great time! Super beginner friendly! The teacher was super helpful.” This highlights how accessible the activity is, even for those with no artistic experience. Others appreciated the stunning visual results—the neon paints under blacklight really do make your artwork stand out.
The overall atmosphere is described as “super chill,” making it an excellent choice for a casual, fun night. Plus, with small groups of up to 15 people, you’re unlikely to feel rushed or lost in a crowd.


This workshop is ideal for creative beginners, groups of friends, or couples looking to add some sparkle to their evening. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy colorful, interactive activities that produce tangible, glowing results.
It’s less suited for those seeking a lengthy or highly structured art class, but if you want a lively, social experience with an artistic twist, you’ll find this workshop welcoming and fun.
The Glow Workshop at Studio W.I.P. offers a bright, engaging way to spend an evening in Chicago. Its combination of guided instruction, lively atmosphere, and glowing neon paints creates a memorable experience that bridges art and entertainment. The fact that it caters to beginners and keeps the vibe relaxed makes it accessible for nearly everyone.
For travelers wanting to break away from typical sightseeing and dive into something playful and creative, this workshop offers great value. It’s a fantastic way to connect with friends or your partner while making a piece of art that literally glows in the dark.
“Went with a friend and we both had a great time! Super beginner friendly! We went on a Sunday night and it was super chill and the teacher was supe…”
Is this activity suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the activity is designed to be beginner-friendly and inclusive.
How long does the workshop last?
The session lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.
Where does the activity start and end?
It begins at 1047 W Lawrence Ave and the activity ends back at the same location.
Is public transportation available nearby?
Yes, the studio is near public transit, making it easy to reach without a car.
Can I bring my own drinks?
The studio allows you to enjoy your first craft brew on us during the session.
Is this activity suitable for groups?
Yes, it’s designed for small groups up to 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and engaging.
What’s included in the price?
Your fee includes guided instruction, all neon paints, and the canvas. A fun, social environment is part of the package.
Do I need any art experience?
Absolutely not. The workshop is beginner-friendly, and the guides are there to help you every step of the way.
To sum it up, the Glow Workshop at Studio W.I.P. provides a delightful blend of creativity and social fun. It’s an experience that transforms simple paints into luminous art, perfect for anyone looking to try something different during their Chicago visit. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a lively evening activity, this studio offers a bright idea worth exploring.