Today we’d like to introduce you to Susan Salter. Them and their team share their story with us below:
Award-winning artist, Susan Salter, is an encaustic painter living in Richmond, Texas. Creativity began as a child, directing, costuming, using her sisters as actors, and performing original productions for neighborhood friends and family. Creativity withered during school years due to many family relocations, which thrust her into new schools and long-time established friendships that seemed to have no room for newcomers.
In her thirties, Susan once again found the theatre to be her creative outlet. She performed and directed many productions in Community Theatre. Once again, thrust into an unpredictable situation with the death of her first husband, Susan embarked on a journey that led to receiving an MFA in directing from the University of Houston. Also, during that time, she became ordained as a minister in the Church of the Nazarene. She combined her love of theatre and love of God and became the Drama Director for a large local church. Upon retiring, Susan discovered Encaustic Painting by reading a magazine article about some local artists in the Houston Area. Susan found an instructor, learned the basics and ten years later is still hooked on Encaustic. She attended the Glassel School of Design to further her knowledge of color and composition. Her work is now on display at the Fort Bend Art Center and other venues. Along with a fellow artist, Susan teaches Encaustic Painting at the Fort Bend Art Center. It took many years for Susan to call herself an “artist.” What she likes to refer to herself now is a “creative.” Along with Encaustic Painting and collage, she designs and creates theatrical props and sets for local churches and Theatre companies. Productions include The Lion King, Shrek, Seussical the Musical, Little Mermaid, Peter Pan, High School Musical, and Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. Susan also directs a special needs drama group at Chapelwood United Methodist church. Her art arises from a deep inner work and is influenced by nature and daily contemplative practice which includes meditation, journaling, poetry, collage and yoga.
Susan began her life as a creative and has remained so by learning to listen to her life. It certainly didn’t happen all at once – becoming human is a process, sometimes a painful one.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Many relocations into new situations during childhood. Death of a spouse, raising a daughter on my own.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am an Encaustic Artist, painting with hot beeswax mixed with damar resin, using a torch to fuse. I am known for my abstract designs, many of which include lines of color mixed with the use of stencils and a process known by encaustic artists as a shellac burn. I believe what sets me apart from others is the use of many layers of wax, which adds a depth and interest to my paintings. I have been juried into many art venues and for that, I am most honored and grateful.
What’s next?
Working very large is a goal. I’m looking forward to more people learning about the processes of Encaustic Art through teaching classes. I will be approaching new galleries and venues to show and hopefully sell my art.
Pricing:
- My paintings run from $125 to $950.
- Encaustic classes start at $150.00
Contact Info:
- Website: Susansalterarts.com
- Instagram: slsalter96
- Facebook: Susan L. Salter; G & S Encaustic Arts
