Today we’d like to introduce you to Amadea Szamosi.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
When Jason and I first started talking about owning a business, we knew we wanted something that would allow us to build a future together while making a positive impact on our community. Painting with a Twist stood out because it combined creativity, connection, and the opportunity to help people make lasting memories.
Before becoming owners, Jason had worked as the studio manager, so we already understood the business and the relationships that made it special. When the opportunity came to purchase the South Side studio, we decided to take the leap. It was a big decision, but we believed we could build on what was already there while bringing our own vision and energy to the studio.
Since taking ownership, we’ve focused on creating more than just painting classes. We’ve worked to make the studio a place where people can celebrate milestones, spend quality time with family and friends, and step away from the stress of everyday life. Along the way, we’ve introduced new events, expanded partnerships within the community, and are continually looking for new ways to make creativity accessible to everyone.
As someone who enjoys the business and organizational side of things, I’ve loved helping shape our marketing, operations, and long-term vision, while Jason brings his artistic background and passion for teaching. Together, our strengths complement one another, and that’s been one of the biggest reasons we’ve been able to continue growing.
Owning Painting with a Twist has been one of the most rewarding experiences of our lives. It’s certainly had its challenges, but seeing people walk out smiling after creating something they’re proud of makes all the hard work worthwhile. We’re excited to continue growing the studio, serving our community, and creating a place where everyone feels welcome to relax, create, and have fun.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No—it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like most small business owners, we’ve had to adapt constantly and overcome challenges we never anticipated.
One of the biggest hurdles is that we’re considered a discretionary or “luxury” business. When the economy is doing well, people are excited to go out and try new experiences. When times get tougher, entertainment is often one of the first things families cut from their budgets. That can make operating a small business feel like a roller coaster.
At the same time, we believe what we offer is more important than ever. Creativity, community, and spending time together are incredibly valuable for mental health. We see people come into our studio carrying the stress of work, family, or everyday life, and they leave smiling, laughing, and genuinely recharged. Those moments remind us why we do what we do.
Another challenge has been finding partners who share the same level of passion and commitment to building community. We love collaborating with local organizations and businesses, but meaningful partnerships take time and effort from everyone involved.
Finally, we’re still seeing the lasting effects of the pandemic. People became accustomed to staying home, streaming entertainment, and socializing less in person. Part of our mission now is helping rebuild that sense of connection by creating experiences that bring people back together. We truly believe our communities are stronger when people spend time creating, laughing, and making memories face-to-face.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At Painting with a Twist South Side, our goal has always been to create more than a place where people come to paint—we want to create a place where people build connections.
We’re especially proud of our Book Club community. What started as a shared interest in books and art has grown into genuine friendships. We’ve watched people who moved to Pittsburgh knowing almost no one meet at our events, become close friends, and now regularly spend time together outside of the studio. Seeing those relationships form has been one of the most rewarding parts of what we do.
We’re also passionate about making creativity accessible to everyone. One of the most common things we hear when someone walks through our doors is, “I’m not artistic.” By the end of the class, they’re leaving with a painting they’re proud of and a newfound confidence that creativity isn’t something reserved for a select few—it’s something everyone can enjoy with the right encouragement.
We also love creating immersive experiences that go beyond a traditional paint night. Some of the projects we’re most proud of are our large-scale murder mystery events, where guests become part of the story through themed décor, interactive puzzles, live characters, and painting. Designing those experiences allows us to combine creativity, storytelling, and community in a way that’s truly unique.
As new parents, our “why” has grown even stronger. Building this business isn’t just about creating memorable experiences today—it’s about building a future for our daughter. Every event we host, every partnership we build, and every improvement we make is another step toward creating something that will provide opportunities for our family while continuing to make a positive impact on our community.
What sets us apart is that we don’t just think of ourselves as a paint studio. We see ourselves as a place where people can celebrate milestones, make new friends, discover their creativity, and leave happier than when they arrived. At the end of the day, that’s what we’re most proud of.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, basketball was a huge part of both of our lives, but our journeys looked very different.
I grew up in Hungary, where basketball gave me the opportunity to travel, compete, and experience different cultures around the world. It taught me discipline, teamwork, and perseverance—lessons that I still carry with me as a business owner today. I’ve always loved art and creativity, but growing up, sports took center stage. It wasn’t until I met and married Jason that I really had the opportunity to explore my artistic side. Watching his passion for art inspired me to discover my own creativity, and now I can’t imagine my life without it.
Jason grew up with two passions that have always defined him: basketball and art. While many people see those as very different worlds, they’ve always gone hand in hand for him. Basketball taught him leadership, resilience, and how to work with people, while art became his outlet for self-expression. His love for creating and teaching others has always been at the heart of who he is.
Looking back, it’s funny how our paths came together. Basketball shaped both of our work ethics and gave us the confidence to chase big goals, while art ultimately became the career we get to share. Today, we get to combine those experiences by helping others discover that creativity isn’t about being naturally talented—it’s about being willing to try something new. That’s a lesson we both continue to live every day.
Pricing:
- $39. Most instructor led events.
- $29. Happy Hour or All Ages Events
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.paintingwithatwist.com/studio/pittsburgh-south-side/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twistsouthside/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/twistsouthside
- Yelp: https://biz.yelp.com/biz_info/IwkYVrex1g2ICAw_0ZxWfQ
- Other: https://splatterroompittsburgh.com/
