Pure Abstraction
The first exhibition in Russia of works by contemporary American artist Susan Swartz has opened in the Marble Palace. It includes around 100 paintings of various years from the collections of foreign museum, private collections, and the artist’s personal archive.
By Lidiya Shapovalova, Where Traveller
Swartz explores the possibilities of the landscape genre in abstract painting. Her works are pure abstraction. Although the principal structures visible on the canvas – trees, flowers, plans, lays of light and shade – can be seen as elements of nature, they are removed from reality to become integral components of the image.
“Personal Path” is your first exhibition in Russia. What is it’s target audience?
My work is for those who love art for the sake of art. People who enjoy vibrant colors, interpretations of nature, and abstraction typically enjoy my artwork. The “Personal Path” exhibition shows my growth as an artist – the evolving style and colors that make my work unique.
Do you remember when you got interested in drawing?
My interest in art began in high school when I took a painting class. I enjoyed it and my teachers saw potential and so I decided to become an art major in college. While I began in oils, I worked in pen and ink and pastels, and after developing an allergy to oils and solvents I started working with watercolors eventually progressing to acrylic, and am now experimenting with mixed media.
Who were your teachers? What did they teach you? Were there only professional lessons?
In college I had a broad education in painting, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, etc. but painting was my love.
Do you remember your first exhibition? How difficult was it? Has it become easier for you to present your new paintings to the audience now?
I tried various art fairs, etc. with some success and after a few years I remember well my first real gallery show in Princeton, NJ. And then a series of shows in New Jersey, New York and eventually in Park City and Martha’s Vineyard. My first museum show was in 2007 and today I am just as nervous about this upcoming museum show as I was my first exhibition.
Can you tell me a little bit about your family?
Wonderful supportive family, husband of many years, a son and twin daughters and an abundance of grandchildren. A number of close relatives who are also painters and musicians.
Do you have any hobbies outside your profession?
Skiing, tennis, travel. Social philanthropy and documentary film.
Are you vain? What does fame mean to you?
Sure hope not! Fame brings responsibility and I try to bring rigor and passion to my painting and all my pursuits.
How do you choose a subject for a new painting? What are your favorite techniques? And why do they attract you? Where do you seek inspiration?
Ideas come to me from prayer and contemplation, and from nature, whether based on travel, observations from my window, or different life experiences. I like to constantly explore new techniques with my paintings, playing with different mediums and tools to create textures.
What are you most excited about for the future?
I am most excited about St. Petersburg for sure, among one of the most famous collections in the world, and it is hard to think beyond that.
Many people think painters and artists are very superstitious. Do you have a talisman that brings you success? Do you have any particular art taboos?
I have a strong faith in God so no taboos, no superstitions and certainly no talismans. Art cannot be contrived; it must come from the soul.
What human qualities do you find unacceptable?
I have the greatest respect for honesty. Everything else is unacceptable.
If you had the chance of beginning your life all over again, what would you change?
Nothing.
In which country do you feel most comfortable, and do you like travel?
We love to travel and have been in most areas of the world and in many many countries. Have never felt uncomfortable no matter where I am.
