Susan Heeringa-Pieper

2-D and 3-D Mixed-Media, Painting and Drawing

Artist’s Statement

I am an evolved artist in various disciplines. Creating art gives me life and I hope my art influences others. The influence of nature, spirituality, and our development as a species continues to define my work. I call myself a mixed media artist and use all types of materials, texture and color to bring out the unexpected in every piece I create. I also work with my dreams and visions.

The Interview

350 words: If longer we could link to a full interview but more than this would be a lot for this page.

I grew up in rural Wisconsin, where we had no TV or cellphones. For entertainment we listened to the radio or made things from found objects. As a young child in grade school, my teachers recognized my creative ability, gave me carte blanche along with colored chalk and I was given a free hand to create art. I received an art degree at UW, Madison, where I specialized in oil painting and had a strong interest in printmaking and sculptural ceramics.

            I met my boyfriend Marc in art school. We wanted to experience more cultural art and art exposure than we had experienced in Wisconsin. New York was out of the question, as I do not thrive around concrete. With two backpacks and a few dollars, we found ourselves in San Francisco. With various trips in between, we came to Sonoma and were married in 1987.

            When I first screened in, I had no idea how to present myself professionally and was initially rejected by the Guild. Ten years later in 1995, I re-screened for admittance and was accepted as a member. I'm very glad to be a part of AGS. The Guild is a treasure in Sonoma, offering stability and support for local artists.

            I am an evolved artist in various disciplines. Creating art gives me life and I hope my art influences others. The influence of nature, spirituality, and our development as a species continues to define my work. I call myself a mixed media artist and use all types of materials, texture and color to bring out the unexpected in every piece I create. I also work with my dreams and visions.

            I'm pleased to be part of the Di Rosa nature and art preserve collection. Renee Di Rosa's purchase led to my showing in other collections in the Bay Area. I've also been shown at the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art. In addition, I've been teaching art at Art Escape for over 10 years to groups of people from 8 to 80, creating art curriculum that uses what we throw away. Creating art helps offset a war mentality.  

Susan’s work can be found on Instagram at: @essenceintheflow

Interview edited by Nancy Martin http://nancyjmartinauthor.com