This month dot-art speaks to artist Sue Watson.
Sue has been an art teacher in Liverpool for nearly 30 years.
Her work focuses on painting and printmaking, with a strong emphasis on experimenting with different materials and techniques. She often uses observational drawing as a starting point, sketching locally on walks and in her own garden, as well as drawing inspiration from her travels.
Recently, Sue has been developing paintings in watercolour and acrylic based on close-up studies of flowers and plants. She is particularly drawn to pattern and texture in nature and her surroundings, frequently reflecting these elements in her work.
Can you describe your style of art?
My work is figurative, often starting from observation
Which medium do you work with and what do you like about it specifically?
I like to experiment with different materials. Lately I have been using acrylics and watercolours for painting and I’ve also been doing a lot of lino printing, which I like for its sharpness and strong contrasts.
Can you talk us through your process? Do you begin with a sketch, or do you just go straight in? How long do you spend on one piece? How do you know when it is finished?
When possible I like to work from direct observation, particularly when drawing. When printmaking, and sometimes when painting, I will start from a photo, focussing in on a small area that interests me because of its composition. I like to find pattern and texture which I often emphasise in my work. My paintings often go through several drastic changes before I finally feel happy with everything.
When did you begin your career in art?
I studied Fine Art at Leicester Polytechnic in the 80’s and then I taught art in a local school for nearly 30 years. Since retiring in 2021 I have been concentrating on making my own art work.
Who or what inspires your art?
I am inspired by my local environment on the Wirral, my garden, travels to Italy and Mexico, and of course the excellent models who pose for us in life drawing
Why is art and creativity important to you?
Producing art is like taking time out to stop, observe my surroundings and respond through playing with colour, line, pattern, etc.
What do you gain from being a member with dot-art?
I have only recently joined Dot-art but I am hoping it will give me the chance to take part in exhibitions and other opportunities. It also means that my work can be seen online by the public.
What does it mean to be an artist in the Liverpool City Region?
We are lucky in the Liverpool area to have some outstanding galleries and a thriving art scene. There is so much inspiration both inside galleries and out in the local environment.
What are you working on at the moment?
I am working on some lino prints of flowers and plants inspired by my voluntary work at Ness Gardens and I am continuously working on my life drawing.
What was the best advice given to you as an artist?
Don’t wait till you feel ‘ready’ to exhibit/sell your work. That will never happen. Just do it.
Discover more of Sue Watson’s work in our online shop!