Art is...You: SPOTLIGHT ON: Sue Pelletier

Faculty Name: Sue Pelletier
Birthplace: MA
Current Residence: Hopkinton MA

Necessary Job: I LOVE my job of 23 years I am an elementary school art specialist grades K-5. I still love going to work every day! I am blessed to love my job!

How long have you been doing art? Since I can remember and then some…
At what age did you begin creating and why? In high school I became very interested in taking formal art classes. I went to college and majored in art education and fine arts. I had an amazing mentor in college, Lance Richbourg at St. Michael’s in Vermont….from their I received an MFA from Pratt Institute in NY.

What is your favorite part of teaching? I love the AH HA moment! Whether I am teaching kids or adults I love when something just clicks and suddenly people get it! Usually this is when people let go a bit and become free with their risk taking and just play a bit with their mediums. That is why I love teaching kids, they are naturals.

What do you find most challenging about teaching? Encouraging people to play and explore…enjoy the process….don’t worry so much about the product , you will get there!

What do you like to do in your spare time? I am a reality show junkie….Real Housewives, Dr. Drew…bring it on!

What is your favorite type of art medium? Any and all! I am totally addicted to heavy gel matte medium, ask anyone who has taken a class with me, I could have an IV pole hooked up to gel medium and be a happy camper.

Who is your favorite artist? SOoooooo many, Julian Schnabel, Henri Matisse, William de Kooning, Faith Ringold any and all kids art!

What is one interesting (trivial) fact that everyone should know about you? I attended Pratt Institute in the early 80’s and lived in the East Village….the NYC art movement was energized by the young artists moving into the area, so passionate about their work, I loved every second of it, and , I look back at that time and think…WOW! …it totally molded me into the artist I am today. That and I love a medium regular iced coffee from Dunkin Donuts.

Attach your favorite image and detail why it is your favorite. The attached image is my house…I live in a green house with purple shutters with my two teenagers (who are amazing) and my 2 small rescue dogs, who still pee in the house sometime. My house is full of things and people I love and hold dear to my heart.