We’re looking forward to introducing you to Sue Riger. Check out our conversation below.
Sue, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
I believe every human is, in some way, starving for affirmation. It’s a deep, almost universal need—one we can’t fully satisfy on our own.
Recently, I entered a painting into a local show. When I dropped it off, the curator’s reaction was effusive—she told me it was her favorite piece in the entire exhibition and hinted that I might be hearing from the judges about an award. Another person echoed her praise.
But then—silence. No call. On opening night, I walked the gallery and realized I hadn’t even received an honorable mention. For a moment, disappointment stung. But when the awards were announced, I noticed something: many of the winners were receiving recognition for the very first time. I saw the joy and pride on their faces and remembered how transformative that feeling can be.
In that moment, I understood that I had already received my affirmation the day I delivered my work. The judge’s selections were wise, and the joy in the room reminded me that there’s enough beauty, recognition, and encouragement to go around. All was well.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Painter, teacher, and mentor, I create art because it floats my boat, and I help others because it’s the wind in my sails. I especially love working in floral and abstract styles.
A gallery-represented and licensed artist, I also run an online painting school where I help students reach their creative goals. Living in the subtropics, I draw daily inspiration from nature, music, and family.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
Sometimes we set out to do the right thing without seeing the full picture of how our actions will affect others. That’s what happened to my adult son. His intentions were good—rooted in love and a desire to help—but somewhere along the way, feelings were hurt, misunderstandings took root, and relationships unraveled. The result was turmoil, and he became estranged from my family. It has been absolutely heartbreaking.
I’ve tried to find the path to healing, but so far the doors remain closed. I don’t yet know exactly how restoration will happen, but I do know the essentials: trust, forgiveness, humility, and the willingness to give each other a fresh start. It requires vulnerability, letting go of past grievances, and—above all—choosing love even when it feels hard.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
A year ago, my daughter’s marriage ended, and she needed to find a new home. The rentals she could afford were in unsafe neighborhoods with difficult living conditions, so my husband and I opened our doors to her, her three children, and their dog.
To make room, I moved out of my studio so the boys could have a bedroom. I sold my dining room furniture and set up a makeshift studio there, but it never felt right—too cramped, too much traffic. I’m a private painter, and the space just didn’t work.
Eventually, we closed in a porch and created a bright, sunny new studio. It felt like a fresh start—until a new challenge appeared. Pain in my hands, jaw, neck, and feet made even simple tasks difficult. My grip strength began to fade, and I struggled to open paint tubes. Blood work now suggests rheumatoid arthritis.
But giving up? That’s not an option. I’ve just bought four large canvases, taken on a commission, and signed with two agents. I’m determined to find workarounds, slow the progression of the disease, and keep painting. Because art isn’t just what I do—it’s who I am.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
You gotta spread joy wherever and wherever you can. Every day brings new challenges and they are so much easier to cope with when we are surrounded by encouragement.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
If I had only ten years left, I would stop complaining altogether. Complaining drains time and energy that could be used for creating, loving, and living fully. Instead of focusing on what’s wrong, I’d channel that energy into encouraging and uplifting others. I want to help people discover their unique gifts, nurture them, and step boldly into their own light. Life is too short to dwell on frustrations — I’d rather spend it helping others grow, thrive, and shine as brightly as they can.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sueriger.com/
- Instagram: paintingsbysue
- Other: Sue Riger School of Painting
https://sue-riger-studio.teachable.com/Penn Studio School of Art
https://www.pennstudioschool.com/fall-2025-courses-workshops/p/creative-abstract-florals-online-course-fall-2025-w/-sue-riger
Image Credits
Sue Riger
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
