Local artist unveils artwork for Ryder Cup
Painting professionally for over six decades, Thompson's portfolio spans golf courses, animals, lighthouses, U.S. presidents and iconic Long Island landmarks.
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Elaine Ryder-Thompson’s lifelong love of painting has earned her a prestigious commission from the PGA: creating an official poster for the 2025 Ryder Cup, set to take place this September at Bethpage Black.
Thompson recalls her artistic journey starting with a simple box of crayons given to her in elementary school.
“Before then, I didn't have any crayons or anything,” she said. “I went to Sayville schools and they gave me a box of crayons. And immediately I was painting and coloring.”
Painting professionally for over six decades, Thompson's portfolio spans golf courses, animals, lighthouses, U.S. presidents and iconic Long Island landmarks. But this latest project posed a unique challenge: a tight deadline with design approvals.
“It was very difficult to get it done in time,” Thompson admitted. “So I had to speed things up.”
To meet the deadline, Thompson adapted a painting of Bethpage Black’s 18th hole, which she originally created for the 2009 U.S. Open and then modified it to include the Ryder Cup trophy.
“I got approval to do the painting of the trophy and incorporate it into that painting,” she explained.
The poster was unveiled this past weekend, and prints will be available for purchase throughout Ryder Cup week.
Thompson will be on-site during the event, signing personalized messages for fans.
“I love what I do,” she said. “And the most important thing is I love the people that I make happy.”
With her brushstrokes capturing the spirit of the tournament and the beauty of Bethpage Black, Thompson’s work is set to become a cherished keepsake for golf fans and art lovers alike.
