24x24" oil on canvas
SOLD
Ok, take a deep breath Suz. I'm feel like I'm at the first dance recital I never had. This obviously isn't in my usual style or subject matter so, clearly I'm very uncomfortable.
I'm fortunate to be part of 100 plus women from around the world exhibiting works in International Women Celebrate!, the 100 Woman Art Exhibit at AyrSpace Gallery in Canada. The works are the artists response to IWC.
A new friend and very gifted artist Nicki Ault was kind enough to suggest my name and I became part of the exhibit soon thereafter. Thank you so much Nicki for the suggestion and the emotional support. You can see Nicki's incredible work at her blog: http://nickiault.blogspot.com/.
We were asked to include a narrative of our work with submission of the piece, so I guess I'll include that here...
My journey through life as a female has been incredibly illuminating. I’ve grown from a position of feeling hopelessly dependent to a place of feeling joyously liberated, creatively alive and deeply grateful. And, oddly enough, in looking back, I wouldn’t have it any other way.
My response to International Women Celebrate is one of metamorphosis in keeping with my own experience as a woman. A time spent in deep confusion gave way to a time of spiritual cocooning and finally liberating freedom. My power is now my own to lose and my wings are weak still, but I envision taking flight any day now.
Well, there you have it. Of course I'm riddled with self-doubt, don't think it's nearly good enough or thought through. I'd like to use the excuse of only having 3 days to complete it due to a full schedule, personal mishaps like not keeping up with the requirements and a cold from hell. It's a beginning. At least I stepped out of my comfort zone.
That said, I'm feeling much better and can't wait to see what everyone has been up to.
Dear Suzanne,
ReplyDeleteYour work never ceases to amaze or inspire me. And after completing such brilliant work, you still doubt. A sign of true genius.
Thank you for sharing your gift.
All the best to you.
Joan
This is simply breathtaking. I am in complete awe Suzanne. I don't even know what to say other than it is perfect and I love it. :) Well done!
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely stunning! Exquisite and just amazing! And kudos to Nicki Ault for nominating you! Beautiful writing on your narrative, too. As always, you inspire me!! Congratulations!
ReplyDeleteYou put those self doubts to rest...this is Exquisite! So delicate and moving. The title fits perfectly, as does your statement. This painting is going to Wow them. It certainly Wowed me!
ReplyDeleteWow!!! Looking at your beautiful work just emphasizes how far I am to where I'd like to be. This is beautiful! Did you have a model?
ReplyDeleteThe show is lucky to have you and give Nicki a hug for me!
It's wonderful Suzanne, plus I feel your statement is very powerful in and of itself!
ReplyDeleteSplendorious!!
ReplyDeleteoh my gosh,,, this is so delicate, so soft, so magical, so peaceful, so full of emotion that the beauty brings tears to our eyes.
You reached beyond the limits for this amazing, amazing painting,,,
you should be very proud of this,,,
thank you for stepping out....
you are amazing
love
tweedles
The more you exercise outside of your comfort zone, the stronger your wings will become. And, sister, with paintings like this coming from your easel, I'd say it's time to stop just fluttering those wings around and start flapping them. You're more ready than you give yourself credit... Take flight!
ReplyDeleteP.S. Nicki ROCKS!
-Don
Suzanne, this is a truly powerful piece and the title is perfect. I'd give much to be able to have an iota of your talents. Your work is always so very exquisite and this is no exception. Have confidence my friend. You always amaze.
ReplyDeleteThere is nothing I can say that has not already been said. You are there girl! This is stunning, bravo!
ReplyDeleteSuzanne - I think it is lovely! And good for you for braving ti and trying something new. we never learn and grow if we don't explore :-)
ReplyDeleteThis is truly wonderful Suzanne!! I am so glad to see you in the show...let go of the doubt!
ReplyDeleteLovely job, Suzanne! Especially for doing it in such a short time. I think you need to step out of that comfort zone a little more often:-)
ReplyDeleteFascinating, Suzanne! When I saw the thumbnail, I was puzzled...because I didn't think it was yours...but now I see you were doing a special project. It's very lovely and I have a feeling it will be much appreciated given the subject matter. BUT- why not a self-portrait?
ReplyDeleteSuzanne - are you kidding? It's FANTASTIC! I loved it the minute I saw it. Toss your doubts to the wind and know you've created an intimate, beautiful piece!! Congratulations!
ReplyDeleteI think you need to step out of your comfort zone more often! This is both beautiful and powerful. Since I am a master at self-doubt, I understand, but you really should not pay one bit of attention to that voice.
ReplyDeleteFabulous, beautiful and comforting to look at and read about. I am very impressed, congrats on your entry!!
ReplyDeleteSuzanne this is truly stunning!!! I think it's great that you were pushed in new directions. Absolutely fabulous, and I think we all have self doubts especially when our work is raw and personal.
ReplyDeleteNo WAY, Suzanne - I'm doing it, too! Yours is SO cool, now I wish I could take mine back!!!! Your writing was so deep, mine was spun out of my head and sent off - quick, quick!
ReplyDeleteLovely painting, true sentiment. I'm with Carrie, I think this is truly stunning!
I think its fantastic Suzanne, love the tones on the skin. Best wishes for the show!
ReplyDeletethis is stunning!!
ReplyDeleteHi Suzanne,
ReplyDeleteI'm back from my holiday and imagine my surprise when I checked in on one of my absolute favorite blogs and saw my name! Crazy!
I expected your work to be breathtaking but in all my imagination I could never have come up with this. It is incredibly thoughtful and skilled. I love every square inch of it! I am so happy you decided to be part of this collaboration... I am so happy you consider me a friend. I feel the same and for each bit of support you might have felt from me... I felt the same right back from you!
Thank you and be proud! This one is glorious!
You are definitely taking flight! Amazing work- no more self doubt. Whenever you feel that doubt, sit back and read your blog comments and feel the love and encouragement. Wow, congratulations!!
ReplyDeletewow, Suzanne, beautiful painting... -Sandy Haynes
ReplyDeleteWow, I love it, Suzanne! It's definitely a step in a new direction.
ReplyDeletelovely translucent skin tones and sensitive composition... excellent work
ReplyDeleteHello all:
ReplyDeleteI am still up and reflecting on the experiences of Nicki and Suzanne.
They are both amazing individuals who have stretched on this little project that grew, "International Women Celebrate" (IWC!).
A Canadian journalist, Cathi Bond, has asked me to do a Q&A type spot with her for rabble.ca
Our deadline is very tight. I struggle with some of her questions but reading about Nicki and Suzanne's process has given me some renewed thinking. After all I mentioned to Kim Rempel from the beginning and to all collaborators that IWC! was happening so fast that it would have to be about process unfolding...
Jill