Artist Statement

“I like old artifacts, peeling paint, rusted metal and rocks. I incorporate the surface qualities of these objects into my work by creating layers of screenprinted images or by creating visual texture through paper and found objects. These articulated surfaces recall earlier ties to spiritual realms and connections to past cultures. It helps me to identify to the here and now; to know that all things are connected.”

-Susan Denniston

Why I create ART…

In another time and place, I had a connection to the spirit within me. It was a relatedness to all things when physical matter combined with emotions and spirit. There was a sense of balance and harmony and a connection existed that allowed us to communicate with the cosmos. Now, collectively as human beings, I feel as though we’ve lost that connection. We find ourselves living fragmented daily lives. Things around us move so fast and we wonder if technology helps or hinders us.

We look at images in rock art and ancient artifacts and vaguely remember memories long past. We know the connection exists because we can feel it. As an artist, I feel too this connection. I visually try to examine how fragmented and fast-paced our lives have become. I cut through many layers in my prints as though I were an archeologist excavating strata for answers to age old questions. My artwork becomes a personal archeology. I use a lot of images and symbols … some from the ancient past, others I’ve newly created. I’m hoping they will help to dissolve the veils from our past. Some of these symbols are as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago. All are combined anew to formulate a new visual language in a new time. See and feel how many are familiar to you. Reestablish the connection!