#An Artist's Feelings Made Manifest

The Jacksonville Public Library and The Art Center Co-Operative present "The Mysterious Mind of an Abstract Artist" with art by Susan Smith. The exhibition runs October 13 through December 29 in the atrium on the second floor of the Main Library. Join us for an opening reception Wednesday, December 7 from 6-8 p.m. (during Art Walk). 

Ever wondered what an artist was thinking when they paint a still life? Were they hungry? Or did they just like the colors or the way the light hit that big, red apple?

What about a painting of something you don't recognize? If it's not familiar or "real," how is the viewer supposed to interpret it?

Smith says, "Abstract painting is the physical manifestation of the artist's feeling or ideas as expressed by forms, colors, textures, lines and gestures." 

Sometimes, she says, "it is a brief excursion into the mind of the artist." More than that, it invites the viewer to contemplate, imagine and question. "It's an attempt at a secret conversation between the viewer and the creator," Smith feels. 

"The work can speak to each of us in different ways depending on our own feelings, in the moment. And that is fine."

Susan's goal as an abstract artist is to create a provocative image that encourages viewers to look further. Layer by layer, she builds up the painting and then obscures or unearths parts of it. This back-and-forth creates a dialogue that determines the direction of the piece.

Susan Smith is also part of the Butterfield Garage in St. Augustine. For more about Susan, visit her TAC exhibition page.