Susan G Stewart
Oxford, Canterbury
New Zealand based acrylic painter and mixed media artist. Representational and abstract. Inspired by people and life in nature.
Message
Susan Stewart is a mixed media artist living at the foot of Mount Oxford in the South Island of New Zealand.
Known for her colourful nature inspired paintings and portrait illustrations.
Susans creative journey began as a child growing up in Australia on the family farm. Drawing with watercolour pencils, creating detailed illustrations of birds, nature and wildlife from a very early age.
This lead her to complete a Batchelor of Applied Art at Deakin University in 1992.
It was here where she received a grant to create a series of prints for a exhibition of abstract nature.
On a New Zealand holiday, Susan receive a commission to create a series of illustrations for a small town. This project cemented her love for the nature, wildlife and culture of New Zealand, now her home.
After many years as a illustrator/designer. Life took a turn in 2020 when personal loss led her down a new path of creating life in nature and culture inspired art.
Susans art characterised by her bold use of colour and striking imagery. She draws inspiration from life in nature, people, cultures and everyday life.
Statement
The colourful view of life in nature.
Memories and experiences that stem back to childhood.
Exploring the family farm, camp sites, sitting among wildflowers, watching people and birds.
Camera in hand Im searching for colourful moments that inspire.
Sometimes, its sunlit landscapes, the colours of autumn leaves or an abandoned cottage.
My paintings are, built on a series of layers of acrylic colour, medium, pastel marks or collage.
Starting with the intention of playing and daily journal explorations.
Building layers of colour, value and texture, taking risks, looking for surprises. Making mistakes, changing directions, resisting the urge to illustrate.
Im fascinated by my subject, addicted to the process of creating and I allow my passion to guide me as my art unfolds.