About Me

JOANNE LIFF

Pastel Artist

Growing up in upstate New York, I was surrounded by art and artistic people who inspired me to pursue artistic outlets.  My Dad was a copper water sculptor and watercolorist.   I began my art education by taking a drawing class with local artist MaryJane VanZeijts.  Later, I explored the techniques of oil painting with artists Eileen Sanger and Doug Reina.  Through my exploration of various mediums, I have found my passion in pastels.  

Setauket has been my home for over twenty years.  I live with my husband Dan and our four children.   Living in the Three Village area, I have found it to be the perfect place to be inspired by the local landscapes.  Long Island is rich in history,  natural beauty and vivid color.  Sitting among the lavender fields or trekking through a sunflower farm gives me inspiration for my work.  Many walks on West Meadow beach or through Avalon Park have been captured in my recent pastel drawings.  

Once a week, I connect with my art peers at MaryJane VanZeijts’ Studio 268, where I spend studio time learning, producing and critiquing new artwork.  My pastels have been shown at the Gallery North Outdoor Art Show for the past four years.  I am a member of the Setauket Artists group where I have exhibited my work at Deepwell Farm and at the Setauket Neighborhood House.  I also have been commissioned to do local landscapes and residences.  At present, my latest pastel is on display at the Reboli Center in StonyBrook.