Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Susan Manders. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Susan, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
Painting is my oxygen. Without it, I’d probably turn into a potted plant. You see, I’m on a mission to corral all my little wild monkeys bouncing around in my brain onto canvas. It’s like a chaotic circus up there, but hey, makes for great art! I’m all about capturing those, ‘blink and you’ll miss it” moments from my imagination, surrounded by the drama of everyday life. And those people that I paint? They’re like my imaginary friends, except they don’t judge me for wearing pj’s all day long. Call me the novelist of the canvas—- l love a good story and always a hint of mystery to keep things interesting
Becoming an artist is not a destination
As an artist, painting is my way of expressing what words cannot capture. Since I was a child, images have resonated with me more deeply than words ever could. I vividly remember learning to read with “Dick and Jane” primers, where the illustrations stole the spotlight, making the vanilla storylines seem secondary. Even then, I found myself drawn to the illustrations, seeing them as the heart of the story. I’ve always known that images can pack a punch that words can only dream of. I’m pretty certain this perspective, shaped how I perceive the world. I suppose I’ve always marched to the beat of my own secret Bad Ass Girl drum that is unconventional and have known there is more to life than meets the eye. Painting? In my world, art isn’t just about pretty pictures; it’s about stirring something deep inside, something that screams, I’m here and I’m not apologizing for it. So I think it would be safe to say, this secret bad ass girl artist is still becoming.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am represented in fine collections internationally, and archived by the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, DC. As the 2nd woman to ever be selected US Olympic Artist, I join an exclusive club of internationally acclaimed artists.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
. I suppose I’ve always marched to the beat of my own secret Bad Ass Girl drum that is unconventional and have known there is more to life than meets the eye.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
I was mentored and studied in the United States, Mexico and Europe, where I was invited to the Royal College of Arts in London. Being a Los Angeles native, my artistic vocabulary stems from the LA multicultural lifestyles: paparazzi, Hollywood, Latino, fashionistas, celebrities, night life, beaches, and so on.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.susanmanders.com
- Instagram: susan_manders
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/susanmandersartexperience
