Born in Brooklyn, rooted in the Caribbean
Isla Metro was founded in 2020 with a simple, radical idea: that creative experiences should feel joyful, inclusive, and accessible — not intimidating or exclusive.
Drawing on Caribbean warmth and New York City energy, we create paint-and-sip experiences that are vibrant, authentic, and genuinely fun for everyone from first-time painters to weekend artists.
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Our Mission
“To make creative expression an accessible, joyful, and communal experience for every New Yorker — regardless of background, skill level, or schedule.”
— Maya Rivera, Founder
What We Stand For
Our values
Creativity for Everyone
Art isn't reserved for the trained. Every person has a creative spark — we just provide the canvas, the paint, and the encouragement to let it shine.
Caribbean Soul in NYC
Our Caribbean roots infuse every event with warmth, color, and a joy-forward energy that transforms ordinary Tuesday nights into extraordinary memories.
Community First
We're not just an activity — we're a gathering place. A space where strangers become friends, and where people leave feeling more connected to themselves and each other.
The Team
The artists behind the magic
Meet the creative minds who make every Isla Metro event unforgettable.
Maya Rivera
Founder & Lead Artist
Born in Puerto Rico, raised in Brooklyn. Maya founded Isla Metro after discovering that paint nights could be so much more than paint nights — they could be transformative community experiences.
Carlos Mendez
Creative Director
A classically trained muralist who found his true calling making art accessible to everyone. Carlos designs our signature event paintings and leads our instructor training program.
Sofia Okafor
Events & Partnerships
With a background in hospitality and a passion for community building, Sofia manages our venue partnerships and ensures every event runs seamlessly.
2020
Founded in Brooklyn
12K+
Painters served
50+
Venue partners
5★
Avg. event rating
Your next great story
starts with a brushstroke
Whether you’re planning a date night, a birthday bash, a team event, or just want to try something new — there’s a spot waiting for you.