Susan Cohen
New York, NY
Website
susancohenpaintings.com
Social Media
Instagram
How would you describe your work?
I would describe my work primarily as observational with elements of invention and imagination.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by all kinds of things: objects affected by light and surroundings, the marvel of nature's complexities, discovering the underlying abstraction found by deep and careful looking. Also, I keep an open mind to all kinds of art, from realism to abstraction to conceptual. I feel lucky to live in New York where there is so much art to look at. So much art can be discovered online, but there is nothing like seeing work in person. Often, unexpectedly, I am inspired by art that on the surface seems to have little to do with what I'm currently working on.
Can you speak about your process?
I used to paint still life from observation in an effort to faithfully capture what I see. Lately I've been combining elements of observed reality with invented and exaggerated forms. Often I start by drawing. In the summer, I enjoy painting directly from observation in the landscape.
How did you become interested in art?
I've been interested in art for as long as I can remember. When I was a child, I was in awe of friends of my parents, who were artists. I thought they were the most magical people because they could draw. My parents encouraged my interest.
Do you have any favorite artists, movies or books?
I have too many favorite artists and authors to name!
I love to read novels. I'm all over the place and pretty disorganized in my reading habits. I consult "ten best" lists, listen to podcasts about books, and talk to friends to find out what they're reading.
What advice do you have for younger artists?
My advice to young artists is to not worry about having a style. Style emerges by working hard and figuring out what really interests you.
