Move over Paint and Sip: Make Art – Eat Cake comes to Lyneham

Posted on 17 April, 2025

When life hands you lemons, some people make lemonade — but Canberra artist, musician, art teacher and professional puppeteer Marianne Mettes is serving up something even sweeter.

After her role at the Australian National University was disestablished late last year, Marianne faced a difficult choice: compete for limited jobs in a tough market or carve a new path. She chose the latter — and relaunched Access Art Academy, a creative business offering art classes for adults, puppetry performances and workshops, professional learning for teachers, and even online language classes with her mother, a language teacher.

Now, Marianne is bringing her passion for creativity and community connection to life with her new event series, Make Art – Eat Cake, launching at The Front Gallery and Cafe in Lyneham on Monday, 28 April.

In a true celebration of local women in business, Marianne has partnered with Carly Branch, manager of The Front Cafe, to create and host the event. Carly, herself a passionate supporter of the arts and the local creative scene, has been a driving force behind bringing this collaboration to life.

“I feel so lucky to have joined forces with Carly,” Marianne says. “She’s been so enthusiastic and supportive from the very beginning. It’s been wonderful to work with someone who shares the same passion for building creative opportunities in our community.”

Make Art – Eat Cake is a two-hour visual art workshop designed for beginners and seasoned creatives alike.

Participants will be guided through hands-on art techniques while enjoying coffee, cake, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. All art materials are provided, making it easy for anyone to dive in, create, and connect — no experience necessary.

Marianne was inspired by the popularity of ‘paint and sip’ events, but wanted to offer a more mindful alternative — one focused on genuine skill-building, creativity, and community spirit, without the emphasis on alcohol.

“Don’t get me wrong — I love a good paint and sip! But I wanted to create something different — a space where people could really learn, create something they’re proud of, and simply enjoy the experience,” she explains. “And what better pairing than art and cake?”

The inaugural event is already generating buzz, and Marianne hopes to make Make Art – Eat Cake a regular feature at The Front, including a special Mother’s Day workshop next month.

While starting her own business after redundancy has had its challenges, Marianne says the journey has been incredibly rewarding.

“Building Access Art Academy has allowed me to refocus on what I love most — creating, teaching, and connecting with people through the arts. I’m excited to be offering something fresh and positive for our community.”

Learn more about Marianne’s work at accessartacademy.com and mariannemettes.com.

Images supplied.