My paintings begin not with preconceived idea, but in a playful manner with paints, shapes and marks. Layers build up and are later scraped back to reveal what is hidden beneath the surface. Textures and shapes find their way to the surface allowing my paintings to evolve naturally. I am attracted to the organic textures, materials and life forms that nature offers. Not knowing what the final outcome will be when I begin a painting is exciting. Being surprised at the outcome brings me great joy. This is a creative process that demands experimentation, playfulness, focus and attention. It teaches me trust, patience and awareness. For me, painting is both liberating and calming. I love the process and delight in the outcome.
Susan Behrens, https://susanbehrens.com is an abstract artist who lives and works in Whitewater, WI.
She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in 1983 with emphasis in ceramics. Her ceramic works consisted of both functional ware and nonfunctional pit fired vessels.
In 2013, Susan started working with oils and cold wax medium creating abstract paintings. Her art work has recently been exhibited at 4Art Space at the Zhou B Art Center in Chicago. Susan's paintings has also been in numerous invitational and national and international juried exhibitions.
