Paula Sussman, an American artist originally from Philadelphia, has spent her life immersed in the world of art. Her journey began early, influenced by her parents, who were avid art collectors. At the tender age of five, Paula was given her first set of oil paints, and by seven, she had completed her first oil painting. This early exposure to art ignited a lifelong passion that continues to fuel her creative endeavors.
Paula’s formal education in the arts took her to the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and the University of Pennsylvania, where she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1987. Despite the inevitable ebbs and flows of life, she has consistently returned to her easel, painting on and off throughout the years.
A pivotal moment in Paula’s artistic career occurred in 2020 when she was honored with the Onderdonk Award at the San Antonio Art League and Museum. This accolade recognized her career and secured a place for one of her paintings in the museum’s permanent collection. This achievement stands as a testament to her dedication and skill, marking a high point in her career.
Paula’s work is characterized by a fluid and free approach to drawing and painting. One of her notable works, “Ladies,” exemplifies her technique and artistic philosophy. This watercolor piece began as a series of quick life drawings, capturing the movement and essence of femininity. Paula’s commitment to drawing from life enhances her observational skills, making her a better landscape and abstract painter.
In 2023, Paula made a significant move that would further shape her artistic journey. She purchased a small house with a barn in New Mexico, a state she had long admired and where she felt a deep connection, perhaps inspired by her admiration for Georgia O’Keeffe. Paula has transformed this space, adding drywall and insulation, and creating an outdoor workshop. Her vision for this space is ambitious and inspiring: she plans to establish an atelier for women artists. This atelier would be a place where women can learn, create, and exhibit their work together, fostering a supportive and collaborative artistic community.
Paula’s approach to art is deeply rooted in her early experiences and her continuous practice. She believes in the importance of life drawing, seeing it as a crucial exercise that sharpens her observational skills and enhances her overall artistic practice. This dedication to the fundamentals of drawing and painting is evident in her work, which often features dynamic compositions and a keen attention to detail.
Paula’s move to New Mexico and the creation of her atelier signify a new chapter in her life. The atelier will not only provide a space for her own artistic endeavors but also serve as a nurturing environment for other women artists to flourish.
Paula Sussman’s story is one of passion, persistence, and continuous growth. From her early beginnings with oil paints to her current endeavors in New Mexico, she has remained true to her artistic vision. Her work, whether it is a delicate watercolor capturing the essence of femininity or a bold abstract landscape, reflects her deep connection to the world around her and her unwavering commitment to her craft.
As Paula looks to the future, her dream of creating an atelier for women artists stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration. It is a testament to her belief in the power of art to bring people together, to heal, and to inspire.
