Gwinnett Daily Post

Special Photo Lawrenceville's Painting With a Twist is hosting its first night of Painting With a Purpose to benefit the Aurora Theatre. Attendees will create this painting, "Midnight Train to Georgia," at the event.

LAWRENCEVILLE -- The Lawrenceville Square recently welcomed a new neighbor, Painting With a Twist -- an instructional art studio mixed with wine and beer.

The two owners, Suzette and Felicia Riley, host a monthly event called PaintingWith A Purpose, where the store partners with a nonprofit each month, hosts a class and 50 percent of the proceeds benefit those in need.

On Thursday, the studio is hosting its first benefit with its proceeds going to the Aurora Theatre, one of Gwinnett's largest nonprofit professional theaters.

From 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., attendees will be working on a piece called "Midnight Train to Georgia" while sipping on adult beverages and mingling with the theater's co-founders, Anthony Rodriguez and Ann-Carol Pence.

"You can make a difference," Suzette Riley said. "Come support the performing arts by registering for an evening of fun, where you will paint the beautiful."

The event is $45 per person. Patrons are asked to bring their own alcoholic beverages, but it isn't necessary for the experience.

To reserve a spot, call 678-226-4970 or visit www.paintingwithatwist.com/lawrenceville.