About the Artist
Mary Beth Sasso
My life. My love. My Art.
“I find art to be a journey of self-discovery, allowing me to appreciate the beauty of life in all that surrounds me. My specialty is pastel painting, which I love for its pure pigmentation, allowing me to capture any subject's true essence. Every painting I create fills me with contentment, and I’m constantly amazed at the inspiration the world provides me for my art. My art is not merely a creation; it is an extension of my soul, an invitation to explore the beauty that surrounds us and lies within us all.”
My Bio
My artistic journey spans over 50 years and began in my childhood—a passion that continues to inspire me today. I started my formal training at age 14, studying under master pastelist Claudia Post. After I earned my B.A. in Graphic Design from Central Connecticut State University, I continued my studies at Paier Art College, Cal State Fullerton, Fullerton College, and Cal State Long Beach. This foundation led me to a three-decade career as a graphic designer /art director, where I created innovative and influential visual solutions for a prestigious roster of clients, including leading Fortune 500 companies.
I specialize in teaching foundational skills in drawing, watercolor, and pastel painting. As an associate faculty member at Santa Rosa Junior College and a Kennedy Center Certified Teaching Artist, I developed a curriculum that serves everyone from kindergarteners to adult learners. Having exhibited my fine art in both California and Connecticut, I bring a bicoastal perspective and deep professional experience to my students. My teaching philosophy is rooted in my dual background as a veteran Graphic Designer and a certified yoga teacher. This allows me to guide students through both the technical “rules” of composition and the meditative “flow” of creation.
Instructor’s website: https://marybethsasso.com
