"Peaches and Cream"
Oil On Gallery Wrapped Canvas
Artist's Statement
I have drawn ever since I can remember. My mother used to paint in oils and provided me with crayons as soon as I could hold them. In my search for images for my paintings I am drawn to subject matter with shadow patterns and warm colours that make me feel good. It is my intent that the peaceful, warm landscapes that I create will strike a chord with the viewer.
Background
Nature has always been a profound inspiration for Susanne, who has had an appreciation for the outdoors since she was a child. Having grown up in a rural area bordering farmland in Montreal, Canada, Susanne has a deep personal bond with the natural world, which she expresses in her artistic works. “The vibrancy of color I use in my paintings speaks to me of optimism, hope and freedom,” says Darius in reference to her artwork. “I feel that this is a natural reflection of my personality.” Susanne’s family left Montreal when she was still young, and has since lived in the Fraser Valley of British Columbia, where she continues to be inspired by the outdoors. Despite having a lifelong passion for art, Susanne decided to pursue a career in Biology, and completed her Bachelor of Science degree at age 30. Although she has a keen interest in science, Susanne has always dreamed of a career centered on her artwork, and is constantly striving to perfect her craft. After completing her education, Susanne started a family, and redoubled her efforts of becoming a professional artist. Susanne has since exhibited in several galleries in Vancouver, and has done many commissions for members of the community. As a founding member of an artist’s association in BC, Sue had the opportunity to take workshops with various local artists, including some of her idols in the artistic community. Over the years, Darius’ work has transformed dramatically; from watercolor to acrylic to oil paints, Susanne has explored a variety of mediums in search of her own particular style. After a trip to the Spanish countryside with her son, Susanne returned with brilliant new ideas for colour and form, and began to develop a palette based on photographs taken on that trip.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Simon Fraser University
Private Watercolour lessons - Bonny Roberts, Delta, BC
Workshop - Alex Fong, Kelowna, BC
Workshop - Kiff Holland - Capilano College, Vancouver, BC
Workshop - Janice Robertson - Vancouver, BC
Foundation Course in Drawing - FCA - Vancouver, BC
Exhibitions / Shows
1993 - 1996 Bonny Roberts Watercolour Show, Delta, BC
1995 - 1996 Mind and Matter Gallery, White Rock, BC
1996 Federation of Canadian Artists, Vancouver, BC
1996 Newlands Golf Club - PGA Art Competition
1996 - 1997 Centerville Art Emporium, Chilliwack, BC
1997 - 1998 The Downstairs Gallery, Chilliwack, BC
1997 "People's Choice Award" at Fraser Downs Art Competition, Surrey, BC
1998 Exhibition Grounds, Hastings Park Art Competition, Vancouver, BC
2001 City Hall, Chilliwack, BC
2007 Buckland Southerst Gallery, West Vancouver, BC
2008 The Grey Area Gallery, Chilliwack, BC
Publishing
2009 Bentley Publishing Group