With a passion for portraiture, York-based artist Sue Clayton captures the individuality of her subjects through bold, vibrant colour and expressive brushwork. Believing that everyone has a story to tell, Sue makes it her mission to share those stories through paint.

 

Influenced by artists such as Rembrandt, York painter William Etty, and contemporary figures including Jenny Saville and Tim Benson, Sue enjoys working with dynamic colour palettes and making marks “that shouldn’t be there but somehow work.” Her portraits go beyond physical likeness, seeking to capture the inner life, spirit, and character of each sitter.

 

Recent portrait projects include the York City FC Centenary Fan Celebrations, culminating in over 140 portraits created throughout the year, now proudly displayed at the LNER Community Stadium, home of the Minstermen.

Other notable projects include Heroes of York, for which Sue won Outstanding Visual Artist at the York Culture Awards. This project, created in collaboration with the York Press and BBC Radio York, inviting residents to vote for their local heroes. Portrait subjects included Berwick Kaler (York Theatre Royal’s much-loved pantomime Dame), Ian Donaghy (frontman of Huge the band and charity fundraiser), and Steve Leveson, co-founder of York Against Cancer.

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Following this project, Steve Leveson invited Sue to lead weekly art sessions at the Leveson Centre for those living with cancer—sessions she continues to run and thoroughly enjoys.

With the 10-year anniversary of Heroes of York approaching, Sue will be commemorating the milestone by painting a new set of York Heroes, once again chosen by the public.

 

Sue accepts portrait commissions starting from just £250, specialising in both people and animals, and capturing the unique personality and character of each subject in her distinctive style. Portraits can be created from photographs if preferred, and style, colour palette, and media can all be discussed to ensure the perfect portrait within your budget. Pet portrait prices are available on request.

 

Alongside her commission work, Sue enjoys sharing her love of art through weekly in-person classes in and around York, friendly online Zoom lessons—where many clients have become firm friends—and a wide range of workshops and demonstrations. No previous experience is necessary; Sue teaches complete beginners through to more experienced artists, with classes suitable for all ages.

 

Sue also runs a variety of bespoke events, including business team-building painting sessions tailored to specific organisational needs, art retreats at Newburgh Priory (a Grade I listed Tudor building near Coxwold, North Yorkshire), relaxed watercolour sessions at Quinns Wine Bar in Haxby (with a glass of wine included), fun hen-party life-painting sessions, and much more.

 

Please see Sue’s website and social media for details of upcoming classes and events. For enquiries, commissions, or bookings, contact Sue at sueclaytonart@gmail.com or by telephone 07935007765 for further information and to discuss your requirements