Today we’d like to introduce you to Patrice Thornton.
Hi Patrice, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My daughter and I purchased the Painting with a Twist Downtown Detroit studio in April 2021 and celebrated our grand opening in September 2021. We both enjoy planning events, connecting with people, and being part of our community, so when the opportunity arose to open a paint-and-sip event space in downtown Detroit, we were determined to make it happen.
Our goal was not only to start a business, but also to build generational wealth for our family. We believe that when we invest in ourselves and each other, we create opportunities that future generations can build upon. While financial success is important, we are equally committed to being a positive presence in the community and contributing to its growth.
Downtown Detroit continues to evolve as a destination for both residents and visitors, and we wanted to be part of that momentum. Although we are not professionally trained artists, we bring creativity, strong event-planning skills, and a passion for bringing people together.
Opening during the pandemic was challenging, but we believed that as the world reopened, people would seek opportunities to reconnect, relax, and create lasting memories together. In September 2021, as the city began to reopen, we officially welcomed the public into our space and began our journey as small business owners.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been both smooth and bumpy. Having this business is fun – we love connecting with people, watching them make memories together, seeing the look of delight when an art project looks better than they expected. We are excited and proud to create a space that supports local artists and art students. Running a business has taught us that the hardest part isn’t just the workload, it’s the mental weight. It’s staying motivated when sales are down, trusting your decisions when results aren’t immediate, and continuing to innovate even when you’re already stretched thin. There’s always something that needs your attention, and it can be hard to ever fully step away.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As I mentioned in the earlier question, neither me nor my daughter are trained artists, but we do consider ourselves creative. I (Patrice) served as a Marketing and Outreach Manager for the US Environmental Protection Agency for over 30 years. Ashley has a Master of Public Health and a heart for public service. She is passionate about improving community health and creating spaces where people feel connected and inspired. In her role as Corporate Sponsorships and Events Manager at Alternatives For Girls, Ashley combines her love for events with commitment to meaningful impact. Ashley considers herself creative, enjoys working closely with people, and takes pride in creating memorable experiences that last long after the moment has passed.
Our paint-and-sip business is built around the belief that art has the power to bring people together. What started as a creative outlet has grown into a space where people can relax, connect, and discover that creativity lives in all of us—even in those who think they “can’t paint.”
Through guided painting experiences, our artists help create environments where people feel comfortable trying something new, laughing, and expressing themselves without pressure. It’s never just about the painting on the canvas—it’s about the conversations, the confidence people gain, and the joy of creating something with their own hands.
What I’m most proud of is the work we do in the community. A big part of our mission is making art accessible to people who might not otherwise have the opportunity. We often host free painting events for nonprofits, seniors, mentally challenged and underserved communities because we believe creativity and connection shouldn’t be a luxury. Some of the most meaningful moments have come from watching someone pick up a paintbrush for the first time and realizing they’re capable of more than they thought.
Two things set us apart from other similar businesses. First is our customer service. Our goal is not just service – but an exceptional experience. We treat people like family and we go the extra mile. Secondly, our business is rooted in purpose as much as creativity. While we love hosting celebrations and fun nights out, we’re equally committed to using art as a way to uplift, encourage, and give back. Every event—whether it’s a birthday party, corporate gathering, or community outreach—is about creating a welcoming space where people leave feeling inspired, connected, and proud of what they created.
At the end of the day, our goal is simple: to use art to create moments of joy and belonging.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
The paint and sip industry is no longer a novelty. It has become more saturated. We must work hard so that it is not perceived as predictable, repetitive, “something we’ve already done”. In addition, people seem to be drinking less alcoholic beverages. The “sip” part is becoming less of the focus. The focus is evolving to creative socializing. Right now we are competing with cooking classes, axe throwing, escape rooms and not just art classes. Competition is fierce! And most importantly, people want more experiences. They want shareable moments and not just activities. Our motto has always been “make memories, not masterpieces”, but we have to really live that motto. Going forward, we need to combine the painting event with experiences such as candle making, poetry night, trivia night, etc.
Our goal is to make creative experiences and the art our guests take home accessible and affordable for everyone. Our prices range from $15.00 to $75.00 depending on the surface being painted and if it is custom art or non-custom art.
Pricing:
- 15.00
- 30.00
- 40.00
- 60.00
- 75.00
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.paintingwithatwist.com/studio/detroit-downtown/
- Instagram: pwatdetroit
- Facebook: Painting With A Twist (Detroit)
