Artist profile - susan pietrasko

Susan Pietrasko retired after 31 years as a Vocational teacher for Nassau BOCES and took up the hobby of painting 16 years ago. She is self-taught, using art books, watching Jerry Yarnell and Wyland in the beginning years, and now watches Roger Bansemer on television. Originally from Moriches, Long Island, Susan started teaching acrylic painting classes 15 years ago and now teaches at Heritage Isle where she lives. 

What advice do you wish you have been given earlier in your art career?
Planning painting projects so that each one adds to their experience and skill level keeps me continuously thinking how to improve. 

What's the best art gift you've received or given?
I have gifted students several art items., but a color wheel and a set of good brushes were the most useful.

What keeps your work fresh?
Experimenting with different techniques and mediums keeps my own work fresh.

Is there something you'd like to add?
​Painting, in general, is for your pleasure and should make you happy. Having someone purchase one of your paintings, because it makes them happy, is a huge plus in my book. Everyone has their own style whether it meets your idea of greatness of not, but that's the beauty of expressing your ideas through painting.