Meet Suzanne Edmonson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Suzanne Edmonson.

Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I have always loved expressing myself through art.  It started with my first art lesson at my mom’s kitchen table in Texas.  She was a creative and accomplished musician and encouraged my creative expression by enrolling me in painting lessons at the Children’s Museum in Fort Worth. Those early classes were the beginning of a lifelong love affair with painting and led me to seriously study art  at the University of Texas at Arlington where I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.

After college, I gravitated toward a career in advertising as an Art Director since it is an incredibly imaginative business and a perfect outlet for my creativity.  During my advertising career, I oversaw the creative artwork aspects for campaigns with major agencies, clients and businesses, but I never stopped painting. In fact, it allowed me to think conceptually and communicate ideas. That focused thinking and creative discipline has helped to enrich my fine art. I now devote all of my time to my art in painting, creating, drawing, etc.

Please tell us about your art.
I love animals.  They are important to me in my everyday life and my goal is to communicate their essence to the viewer.  I paint them in a realistic style, but I really focus on capturing their eyes looking back at you. It’s been said that the eyes are a window to the soul so I capture their eyes in a way that reveals their personality.

I use bold colors, floating objects and a flight of the imagination to capture the essence or personality of the subject matter. I love adding human elements like a fancy dress, crown, or suit and tie, that makes their personality sing in a way so they almost seem human (because so many of them, like my own pets, think they are.)

I also find inspiration in everyday things, scenes and, of course, animals; and work toward giving them an important statement in life, which often includes a hint of whimsy like the artists who have influenced me use in their work including Jasper Johns, Andy Warhol, Claes Oldenburg and Rene Magritte.  Their vision and artistic expression of ordinary things and scenes have been foundational for inspiring my artistic expression and style.

My paintings are in private collections through sales and commissions and are featured in various shows (occasionally winning recognition and awards).

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing artists today?
Most artists want to spend their time creating and the business of art is a dreaded chore.  It is most challenging getting your artwork in front of the right audience and getting exposure in more prominent venues so that your art is seen, known & desired.

How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
My website (“http://suzanneedsmonson.com/“suzanneedsmonson.com) showcases my art… past & present. My current work, including works in progress, is posted on Instagram @Suzart3 and on Facebook.

Two of my paintings are currently in a juried show “Through the Looking Glass” at the Encino Terrace Center.

Image Credit:
Temptation, Eclectic Chair, Magic Jack, Aristocat, HRH Baily, Sly, Burrito Bros.

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