Q&A with Local Artist, Susan Haynsworth

We are sitting down to chat with local artist, Susan Haynsworth regarding her unique mixed media artwork! We love hearing from the artists that make up Affordable Art of Charleston! Read the interview below to learn more about Susan’s art!

Tell us about yourself:

I grew up in South Carolina and was always encouraged to be artistic by my family. My father was a graphic designer, giving me an appreciation of design. I studied art at Virginia Commonwealth University, where I began to combine photography and illustration.

Tell us how you got started in art?

My first professional art show was 25 years ago, where I participated in a Small Works show in Taos, NM. I made a collage-assemblage piece, and at the time I was teaching myself basic wood working skills. I made boxes with found wood and objects and added collage inside. When the review for the show came out in the newspaper and my piece was mentioned, I was thrilled.

How would you describe your art?

They are truly Mixed Media Collage: I use an array of materials ranging from old magazines, my own photographs, paint, and pastels. There's always something in the image that's a reflection of my life and environment.

What inspires you?

I'm very inspired by my surroundings, nature, and creative friends and people I admire. Creative people gravitate to similar places because the collective energy that they create helps them to keep their momentum. Although many artistic people can enjoy solitude, their web of connected creatives is a very important support system. The beauty of nature also helps me to feel grounded and connected to the creative source.

Which artists inspire you?

I am inspired by so many, but I typically lean towards art with a graphic sensibility: Pop Artists Robert Rauschenberg, James Rosenquist, Ed Ruscha and Ellsworth Kelly, Georgia O'Keeffe, Agnes Martin, Josef Albers, Hilma af Klint, Olaf Hajek, Natasha Law, Andy Davis, Michelle Quan, photographers Edward Weston and Edward Curtis, and South Carolina artist Aldwyth. I'm also inspired by architects, gardeners, and interior designers: anyone making the world more beautiful.

What do you love about working in the Charleston Art Community?

I have found the artistic community to be warm and inviting, with a "the more the merrier attitude". Having artists in a community enhances everyone's quality of life, and Charleston has an eclectic mix of residents now, some who love classic Lowcountry landscapes, and others who love contemporary art. There are artists here working in a variety of styles, so there's something for everyone.

How does Charleston inspire you?

Charleston is one of the most beautiful and unique cities in the world, and in my opinion it's up there with Amsterdam and Venice: there's no where else quite like it. Between the gorgeous preserved architecture, meandering Lowcountry waterways, canopy of venerable trees, the distinctive cuisine, and festivals like Spoleto, Charleston is now a destination for the arts.

What is your favorite piece that you have done?

I would say "The Source" because the image represents a very strong, feminine woman, who is confidently balancing aspects of nature: the ocean, plants, and animals. I feel that now, more than ever, we need this kind of energy in the world. I was honored to have this piece featured in ArtMag last year.

What is the most difficult part about being an artist?

I don't think art is viewed as being essential in the US like it is in other countries, where artists are truly valued. Creatives have to be strong to keep the momentum going. They are always the first to be asked to donate their art, but there aren't a lot of other professionals being asked to donate their services. I think many people take art for granted in public spaces, hospitals, and parks. Fortunately, MUSC has done a good job in acquiring art for their facilities. The ability for art to heal is powerful.

What is the best part about being an artist?

There is nothing better that visualizing something in your mind, and then being able to manifest it as a piece of art. It's truly miraculous, and it takes us to places within us we may never have known otherwise. It's also wonderful to be able to share this with others!

What are your favorite pieces at Affordable Art of Charleston?

There are so many great pieces to love at AAC, and so many styles. Some of my favorites are the surf art of Taylor Faulkner, and Kate Comen's delectible food paintings.

Why do you love working with Affordable Art of Charleston?

Carol and her team are enthusiastic and highly professional with all aspects of art, and have a keen sense of how art makes a room GREAT!