Sue Pendleton Art

09/26/2026

Another fun exercise.
Simple palette: Cad Red Medium. Indian Yellow. Prussian Blue.

09/25/2026

Super fun exercise.
Canvas pad. Painters tape.
Limited palette: Burnt umber. Cerulean Blue. Lemon Yellow

09/22/2026

My art class is currently focused on abstract realism. Each class focuses on a different approach.

For this first class, we are relying on the concept of painting the negative space around the primary object.

I've shared my process and the final result. I was happy with the result and thoroughly enjoyed myself!

09/20/2026

Spent a little time putting on the finishing touches of my Crockett's Cove Church painting. It's 36" x 24" and we're looking for some old barn wood so Will can make a frame. Then I think she'll be done!

09/17/2026

I've not been able to paint this week as my studio assistant, Teddy, has just had knee surgery to put his patella back in place. As you can see, he's deeply annoyed with his situation.
Only 5-7 more weeks to go 😱
(Hoping I can get some studio time in as he starts to heel) 🤞

09/11/2026

25 years ago, one of the ferry's brought my Dad to safety.
That morning he'd arrived at work, got his morning coffee at the base of the World Trade Center, then headed to his office next door. He was 78 and still commuting in and out of the city to work.
Dad had fought in WWII in the Battle of the Bulge and had helped liberate a concentration camp in Germany at the end of the war. He'd seen a lot. And later in his life, he was able to talk about the war. But he was never able to fully disclose what he saw as he walked towards the Hudson River, looking up to see the second plane crash into the South Tower.
Every year, since this documentary was produced, I watch and marvel at the power of humans to destroy each other. And help each other. Like Mr. Rogers said, "Focus on the helpers."

Never forget. 9/11

Tom Hanks narrates the epic story of the 9/11 boatlift that evacuat...

09/10/2026

I think this large painting is close to being done, but giving it a few days to "rest".

My goal was to allow the viewer to relax in the cool shade and enjoy the sun soaked view of Crockett's Cove Church. Interestingly, the church served as a field hospital for wounded Union soldiers after the Battle of Cove Mountain on May 10, 1864

09/02/2026

Step 2 in my process is getting a value study done. I cover the canvas with a transparent color and use a rag to rub it in. (This becomes my mid-value.) Then I use a wet paper towel to remove all the lights. (This is hard with acrylics because they dry so quickly. I need more light on the church building ultimately.) Then I add another layer of the transparent color (and a touch of ultramarine blue) to make the darks.
The value study gives me a solid idea of structure of the painting.

08/31/2026

I always start a new painting with a quick sketch. I allow myself about 5 minutes to complete. And I prefer using pen so I don't get too precious with how "correct" it is.

While the sketch only takes 5 minutes, I've been thinking about this painting in my head for about 3 solid days.

08/25/2026

I'm at a loss for words hearing about the loss of Dolly Parton. Anyone who thinks she's "just" a country music star, doesn't know all that she's done for humankind around the globe. May you rest in peace, Dolly. And thank you for everything. Truly one of a kind.