Featured Artist Susan Porter

Emerging British artist Susan Porter paints larger than life close ups of the many flowers she photographs throughout the year; bright, bold, beautiful and detailed, they jump off the canvas. Visit her website to see more of her paintings.

 

 

I am a British artist currently living in Montreal, Canada. I started painting quite late in life, and love the feeling of inner peace I have whenever I paint.

 

 

As far back as I can remember, I have enjoyed being creative. It was, however, when I trained as a chef, that I discovered that I preferred using a few simple quality ingredients and that this was the key to success.

 

 

I brought up two children and loved the time we spent together creating, whatever the season; but once they no longer needed my full attention, I had time to start doing something that was just for me. I am lucky to have attended many inspiring classes, which taught me to listen to my inner creative voice and to follow my own natural instincts.

 

 

I am a minimalist who loves the simple clean lines found in many objects, but especially in flowers. By using natural light and portraying that in my work, I believe the viewer can then fill in the spaces and so become a part of the interactive creative process.

 

 

I start by taking photographs of flowers throughout the year so that I always have an image for when the inspiration hits me. Typically, I tend to work at least a season ahead of their regular flowering time.

 

 

I prefer to paint in a large format, with bold shapes, so the flower can grasp the viewer’s full attention. The details come next; through shadows, light and the use of a limited colour palette.

 

 

I have done many commissioned pieces over the years. This work typically involves creating a special piece to complete a room or office for an interior designer.

 

 

In addition, I have created many commissions working with personal clients. These works are more unique to the clients’ desires, ranging from a painting of their family pet, to a symbolic floral.

 

 

My paintings are now featured in many private collections all over the world. This is an honour I do not take lightly, and recognize this opportunity as a chance to challenge my creative ability more each day.

 

 

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