SUSAN MOORE
Artist Statement
I am an artist. I translate the temporal delight of food into the more enduring satisfaction of painting. The experiences associated with food. Enjoyment begins with the anticipation and expectations of that first bite, then through the dissection of experiences and sensations of indulgence. This complex experience is deliberately and carefully crafted. This experience is ephemeral and intimate. The chocolatier devotes considerable time and attention to their craft. The first bite of the morsel is much like opening a carefully crafted and wrapped present. There is the universal understanding of the mouthfeel of a cream filled chocolate, but that sensation is fleeting.
Painting provides the stage in which I may present the sensations of indulgences and luxury that one obtains through savoring these decadent delights. The intent is to make the sensations linger for a while longer and to unravel the flavors and textures for the viewers’
eyes. Behind the scenes of my process, there is a thorough recreative method. This involves researching the subject and constructing a specific composition. At times the food is acquired from other food artists whose passion for food is evident through their deliberate creation and meticulous process. This connection gives purpose and translates my interest in the passion for the art of food.
Painting is a form of communication that translates desires and impressions. I indulge in the art of manipulating paint to read representationally, yet still allowing the paint to dance on the canvas. I keep my subject matter in focus, but I will abstract other elements of the painting. Composition and scale give my work greater impact, while elevated saturation and contrast creates more “flavors” and intensity. The size, shape, and orientation of the painting is as imperative as the internal image represented. My intent is to create an intimate experience using memories, sensations, and desires. Scrutiny is given to the small interactions with edges of the surface, giving a sense of touch and intimacy. Creating passages between objects is a delicate and playful experience in the painting process.
Realism gives me control and focus. This vision is focused on impact, beauty, and elegance. Realism employs illusions to manipulate the viewer into seeing what isn’t always there, but what I as the artist want them to see. By giving the hint of a tea cup, the viewers’ mind is left to finish the thought. Along with the paint and canvas, the viewers’ memories and sensations are vital tools for orchestrating my art.
This is the beginning of the rest of my work. Looking ahead, I am on the conceptual hunt for what it is that I am painting. I seek understanding and clarity. I want to learn how to be a stronger artist from concept through creation. Life is fleeting, and the goal is to savor the
pursuit.
About the Artist
Iowa native, Susan Moore, practices the Arts of painting and drawing. Receiving her Bachelors of Fine Arts from Iowa State University and her Masters of Fine Arts from the University of North Texas. Moore has a consistent stream of community engagement through artist events, galleries, and shows. Her most recent shows are throughout the Iowa and Nebraska area, including the Stanford Art Museum and Planetarium, The Greenfield Opera House, and The Stalder Gallery. Moore connects to the community and encourages the growth of new and upcoming artists in the area through guest judging in county level art fairs and shows, as well as serving on various committees and artist panels in the Nebraska area.
Moore’s passion for connecting art in the community is rooted in her passion for creation. Moore’s artwork focuses on hyperrealism through mediums of oil, acrylic, and watercolor; while presenting the subtle sensations of indulgence. Moore utilizes the complex tools of color and composition to create works which magnify the viewers memories of taste, texture, and aroma. Moore’s work has been showcased and awarded throughout the states as well as abroad through art partnerships, solo exhibitions, group events, juried competitions, non-profit organization events, and community events.
Moore is settled in the Nebraska City area with her husband Brandon, of thirteen years and their four children. Susan Moore is tenure track Assistant Professor at Peru State College, teaching the area of Fine Arts. Moore further engages with local and national artists as the director of the Peru State College Gallery.
Moore continues her lifelong study of art as well as enhancing the outreach of the Arts.
