Susan Friend is a New York City- and East Hampton-based artist, deeply inspired by nature. Her oil paintings feature waterscapes and skyscapes. Susan finds great joy in being surrounded by nature and paints from these experiences rather than from photos. Through Susan’s paintings, she strives to create a viewing experience where one can escape from the stress that is the day to day, and find a peaceful release.
Growing up in New York City, Susan’s artistic journey began as a drama student at the High School for Performing Arts. She went on to start her own business outside of the arts and continued to foster her creativity through designing and maintaining her East Hampton garden. Her garden was featured in articles in both the East Hampton Star and Long Long Island's Newsday. It was also part of the prestigious Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons (ARF) Garden Tour, as well as several tours with the Garden Conservancy. Another creative outlet of Susan's is cooking. Her menus always feature a harmony of colors and textures, in addition to a balance of flavors. The artistic growth that she developed through cooking and gardening laid the groundwork for her second act as a painter.
Upon retirement, Susan felt an inspiration from within to finally take a leap and explore her desire to paint. She began her studies at the Salmagundi Club in New York City, where she received a Best in Show award. She currently studies at the Art Students League in New York City and the Victor D'Amico Institute of Art (fondly known as the Art Barge) in Amagansett, New York, where she has also received awards and recognition in group shows.
Susan hopes that her story will provide inspiration and encouragement to others who have the desire to paint, but lack experience. She insists, “You have the desire you can do it.”