Artist in the Gallery

June 5 - July 31, 2009

Susan Kubes

My art, indeed my life, is about wonder. My earliest memory has me standing on a riverbank with my father as we explored the tiny mosaic patterns of a fiddler crab’s shell. I was struck with awe and wonder as my father explained that no two are alike in the whole world.

My love of nature continues. What essence can I capture in a water droplet? A leaf pattern? A grinning dog or a textured splash of color?

Nature, art, people, and cultures continued to fascinate as I moved through the phases of my life: wife, mother, employee, world traveler. I grew and studied. My employment tied me into the wonder of the NASA space program and the exploration of a new frontier sparked my imagination. Elements of space are seen in my abstract works.

When illness and disability led to an early retirement, I looked to art for solace. The help given by VSA is invaluable. I’ve been led, encouraged, challenged, and inspired by the staff and members I encounter. With their help I am able to rise above my disabilities by losing myself in the creative process. The sheer joy of creating something from my own experience that is meaningful or beautiful is an amazing opiate, and my hope is that I'm creating pieces of art that others might enjoy.

Today, I experiment with new media and new technologies. These paintings combine high definition acrylics and a variety of other media on canvas, masonite board, or paper, using a number of techniques to create interesting textures and lush color blending to result in a familiar form with hints of the miracle that is Nature.

I enjoy teaching others in my studio. Some of my students have disabilities, and together we leave our limitations behind as we soar on the high currents of creativity.

By seeing the world through the kaleidoscope of wonder, I grow as a person and as an artist. Pain and limitations are part of my world but not part of my self -definition. I’ve won more success as an artist than I once could have imagined. Each day opens to new possibilities. With color, texture, nature, laughter, hope, love, and even outer space as my inspiration, who knows what else is waiting to be discovered?

Links to Susan's work:
susan.kubes.org/
www.innervisionartwork.com/art_kubes.html
www.ArtWanted.com/SusanKubes
susankubes.spaces.live.com/?lc=1033