The arts permeate my being.  I receive great joy from creating. There are often times when having a full time job, being a mother and wife pull me away from doing art, but art is like a magnet and always pulls me back to it. When I am 'in the zone' I feel  electrically charged, but at the same time, quite at peace. Time evaporates when I'm painting or sculpting.  I am grateful for a supportive family, who doesn't seem to mind. 

Ideas for paintings and sculptures sometimes wake me up at night.  I have learned not to fight it. If I can't take the time to paint, I at least sketch out the idea. The lack of sleep is outweighed by the excitement of creating something new.  Canoe trips with friends and students, getting out to the barn to visit our horse, and trips to our cabin at Struther's Lake are activities that frequently lead to ideas for paintings. 

Painting is a multi-sensory experience for me.  I love to listen to good music, have a candle burning and something tasty close at hand.  When I am painting outdoors, God provides the music, sights and smells.  I just try to soak it all in. 

I enjoy the time spent  painting with a group of friends.  We call ourselves "Escape Artists".  We escape together to the adventurous world of art, and away from the business of our lives.  When we get together to paint, we share our passion, ideas and encouragement.  We continue to show our work in group shows.

I get a similar charge from playing music.  Jamming with friends in a band gets my adrenaline pumping too. My involvement with drama as an actor and director also scratches the arts itch.

I have been an elementary and high school teacher for 25 years.  Watching students' skills develop, and ideas unfold is very rewarding.  I consider myself truly blessed to have made teaching my life's career.

I would like to thank my friends, family and colleagues who continue to encourage my artistic endeavours and come out to shows.  Your positive feedback and honest opinions are always appreciated.

-Susan

About the Artist