As America prepares to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary, Long Island artist Elaine Ryder-Thompson is unveiling what may be her most historically significant work to date — a painting depicting the estate of Declaration of Independence signer William Floyd exactly as it appeared during the Revolutionary War.
The painting will be featured as part of Ryder-Thompson’s art exhibit at The Smithtown Library’s Nesconset Building from July 2 through Aug. 31. A free artist reception is scheduled for Saturday, July 25, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Floyd, the only Long Island resident to sign the Declaration of Independence, lived at the famed Old Mastic House. Ryder-Thompson said the painting is unique because it portrays the home as it appeared during the Revolutionary War era, decades before major renovations altered its appearance.
“This is a painting of the Floyd home during the Revolutionary War period which has never been seen before,” Ryder-Thompson said.
To recreate the historic estate, the Bohemia artist conducted extensive research using original floor plans from the National Park Service and other historical sources. Until now, the earliest known depiction of the home dated to 1792, after significant post-war renovations had been completed.
The project carries special meaning for Ryder-Thompson, whose ancestors fought in the American Revolution. The exhibit will also feature the official Suffolk County 300th Anniversary seal she designed in 1983.
Over a career spanning decades, Ryder-Thompson has earned international recognition for works celebrating American history, veterans and Long Island landmarks. In 1984, she designed the official poster for the National Vietnam Veterans Memorial Statue at the request of President Ronald Reagan.
She also created a painting of the Congressional Prayer Room stained-glass window in the U.S. Capitol, depicting George Washington praying for his soldiers at Valley Forge in 1777. Every detail of the work, including the lettering, was painted entirely by hand without the use of computer-generated artwork.
Her portfolio also includes portraits of Presidents George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy and Donald Trump, as well as a widely acclaimed painting of Pope Francis during his 2015 visit to the United States.
More recently, the PGA selected Ryder-Thompson to create the official commemorative poster for the 45th Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black. Her artwork also features Long Island lighthouses, the Statue of Liberty, golf courses, Irish scenes, NASCAR racing, Elvis Presley, the Big Duck and numerous local landmarks.
The exhibit is free and open to the public. For information on daily hours, contact The Smithtown Library. More information about Ryder-Thompson’s artwork is available at www.elainethompsonarts.com