by Justin Vick

Sue Zylak has a knack for capturing the moment.



Some of her portraits depict scenes ranging from a girl playing tug of war with a terrier to a young family of three nestled together on a subway.

While painting, Zylak displays photographs of such moments on a large TV screen hooked up to a computer inside her Troutman studio. The screen enhances the lighting better than looking at a photograph.

“The colors are much more true,” Zylak said.

People say the same about her work.

Her “Homage to Beethoven” won Best in Show at the Mooresville Artist Guild’s 34th annual Spring Art Fest last May. The still-life painting depicts a bust of Beethoven with a violin and sheet music.

Two other still-life paintings, “Gardenias” and “Destiny of the Grape,” are displayed in the McColl Fine Art Gallery in Charlotte, which specializes in American and European paintings from the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Lynne Gingras has displayed Zylak’s work since opening Andre Christine Gallery two years ago.

“There’s never a piece on the wall that people don’t go wow,” Gingras said of Zylak’s work. “We really try to expose and promote people who are so talented.”

Zylak studied Old Masters techniques from the likes of Oscar Durand and Numael Pulido to produce what Gingras describes as museum-quality work. Zylak shares what she’s learned by teaching classes Thursday mornings and evenings at the gallery.

While known for still life and portraits, Zylak maintains a diverse artistic palette so she can best cater to the artistic exploits of her students.

“I learn a lot just teaching other people,” she said.

Meet Sue Zylak

Sue Zylak will display her latest painting at Andre Christine Gallery’s “Defining Ethereal” exhibit.

The exhibit opens 6-9 p.m. Feb. 9 at the gallery, 148 Ervin Road. The opening includes a reception with an opportunity to meet the artists.

The exhibit, which explores airy, celestial, spiritual and emotional themes, will be displayed 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday through April.

Details: www.andrechristinegallery.com or 704-664-1164.