Pastels: A Coastal Canvas 1 Day workshop with Sue Raccanello
Saturday 21st February 2026 9.30am - 4.00pm
ERAS Sunday School
Join Sue in this upcoming workshop which will be an immersive journey into the expressive power of soft pastels, where we’ll explore how to capture the light, energy, and emotion of rolling waves as they meet a rocky, sandy shoreline.
Together, we'll study the drama and rhythm of the ocean — the tension before the break, the moment of impact, and the soft retreat — all through the lens of colour, contrast, and movement. With an emphasis on light play and colour blending, participants will learn how to interpret the subtle shifts within the waves: from translucent greens and turquoise highlights to the frothy whites of crashing surf and the earthy tones of the shoreline.
This workshop encourages a playful yet intentional approach to composition, inviting each artist to express not only what they see but also what they feel — allowing the ocean’s movement to inspire intuitive mark-making and bold pastel gestures.
Whether you're new to pastels or looking to deepen your technique, this is an opportunity to loosen up, experiment, and create an inspiring, light-filled seascape that reflects both the external beauty of nature and the inner flow of creativity.
Saturday 21st February 2026 09.30am- 4.00pm
Book your ticket there are limited spaces:
$120 per person - Non Members | $90 for ERAS Members
or Become a ERAS member (includes workshop ticket) $115
Book online at
https://www.trybooking.com/DFFMS
Please note that spots are limited so bookings are essential.
About Sue Raccanello
Sue Raccanello has had the innate gift of drawing what she sees — not just what she knows — since childhood. Encouraged by a patient and supportive grandmother, young Sue could often be found trailing behind her with pencil and paper in hand, asking, "What will I draw now, Nan?" Growing up on a farm provided an endless supply of inspiring subjects and natural beauty to sketch and explore.
Sue began teaching art to children in her home studio in 1990. Over time, her passion evolved, and she began teaching adults — a pivotal moment in her creative journey. Her work began appearing in magazines, and it was during this period that Matisse Derivan invited her to trial their acrylic paint range. This marked the beginning of a long-standing relationship with the brand, where Sue has served as a contributing artist for many years — testing products, sharing feedback, and even having her artwork featured on packaging sold around the world.
Since 1993, Sue has been leading workshops across Australia and New Zealand. While she has explored nearly every artistic medium, she has primarily worked with charcoals, acrylics, and watercolours throughout her career. The arrival of water-based oils — a welcome alternative for someone sensitive to strong perfumes and solvents — was a delightful addition to her practice.
Although Sue purchased soft pastels over 14 years ago, they remained untouched in her studio for more than a decade. Even joining the Victorian Pastel Society 11 years ago wasn’t enough to spark her pastel journey. That changed nearly two years ago when she finally attended a workshop — and from that moment on, she never looked back.
Sue now delights in the immediacy, vibrancy, and tactile joy of soft pastels — referring to them as “gorgeous little sticks of pure joy.” The rich colours and ease of application have made them a staple in her creative life, and her enthusiasm has spread to her students. Her regular classes in Moama are filled with kindred spirits who fondly refer to themselves as “Sue’s Dustmites.”
With decades of experience, an infectious love of art, and a heart for teaching, Sue continues to inspire others to see the world through colour, light, and playful expression.
Also check out other Workshops in Echuca, Arts events in Echuca, Performances in Echuca.
