Susan J. Harris is a mixed media artist specializing in abstract, intuitive and minimalist paintings.
Artist Statement
”I paint from the heart, letting what's on the inside spill out onto the canvas. Abstracts are my way of experiencing freedom; letting go of expectations and embracing life with simplicity.”
About
Susan’s passion for art began at a young age in the mid 50’s when she took private art lessons from the late North Carolina artist, Francis Kendall. Francis taught Susan various art forms, instilling in her a desire to experiment and find joy in every part of the journey. Throughout high school and college, Susan expanded her studies in a variety of disciplines, including pottery, sculpture, and stained glass construction; all of which have influenced her use of texture and color.
In 2004, after a career in the corporate world, raising and home educating her two children and caring for her aging parents, Susan decided it was time to pursue her lifelong love of art. It began as a way to process the changes she experienced in life. Her early artwork centered around themes of finding joy and healing. Those themes continue to recur in her work to this day.
Over the years Susan noticed circles had found their way onto many of her paintings. Curious, she took an introspective look at herself and her life. She realized circles represent her commitment to do her best.
In 2024, after several difficult years and multiple losses resulting in a hiatus from painting, the circles took on an added meaning of wholeness and safety. When she returned to creating art, a more playful painting technique along with bolder contrasts of color and shapes emerged.
To Susan, the shapes in her artwork hold meaning. The squares represent stability and strength; characteristics she pursues during this stage of life. Triangles represent an interconnectedness and restoration while rectangles stand for security and a sense of peace. She is on a journey to discover her authentic self. The recurring shapes in her artwork represent that path, and serve as a reminder of who she is and what’s important to her.
. . .
Harris is an internationally published artist. She has served as a juror for fine art exhibitions, assisted in overseeing artwork gallery installations and managed the gallery of local artists at the Chamber of Commerce in Greensboro, NC. Her paintings can be found in private and commercial installations throughout the US, Canada and Europe. She works out of her home studio in Randolph County, NC.
Favorite Inspirations
Colors, patterns and textures found in nature and everyday life.
Gallery Representation
NC FINE ART & GIFTS at THE ART SHOP (2017-Present)
ABOUT NC FINE ART & GIFTS -- The Art Shop, originally established in 1899 as an art gallery and photography shop and one of Greensboro's oldest and most well respected businesses, recently introduced a new space adjacent to the main gallery that features unique visual perspectives of North Carolina's rich scenery and history. Part of the inspiration behind the formation of NC Fine Art & Gifts is the abundance of great art being produced in our area. The new gallery features an array of beautiful works, including fine art, pottery, and an assortment of locally hand-crafted gift items created by local and regional artists.
NC Fine Art & Gifts
(located right next door to The Art Shop)
3900 West Market St., Ste. A
Greensboro, NC 27407
info@artshopnc.com
www.artshopnc.com
Click here for driving directions, courtesy Google maps