Susan has lived and worked in north Cumbria for over 40 years so the local landscapes of the Solway, Hadrian’s wall and the Lake District, are familiar subject matter.
Early work included etching and wood engraving where composition is crucial. Now mostly painting in oil, the creative process begins in sketch books, en plein air, then worked and reworked and completed in the studio. Travel has always played a large part in her life and many ideas are derived from places she has visited, sometimes many times so they are not transient or superficial, but hold a place in her heart.
Importantly colour, light and composition are prominent in her paintings. However recording or representing a particular place is less important than capturing its essence and soul, and her emotional response to it. She regards that as being the essential ingredient before embarking on a painting.
Autumn Light on Skiddaw Slopes - oil on board, 800 x 600mm
Evening Light Blencathra - oil on canvas, 102 x 780mm
Winter by Crummock Water - oil on canvas, 780 x 102mm
Fleetwith Pike - oil on canvas, 780 x 102mm
Winter Skiddaw - oil on canvas, 760 x 102mm
Light over Crummock Water - oil on canvas, 710 x 920mm
Autumn Light on Skiddaw - oil on canvas, 920 x 710mm
Saddleback in winter - oil on canvas, 780 x 102mm
Travel Memories - small format oils
The studio gallery at Meadowbank farm