Susan Garson

Susan Garson grew up knowing that she would lead a life in the arts. When she began her master’s work at UCLA, she was drawn to ceramics and decided to use her newly found love of hand building united with her skills as a painter to create functional objects in clay. She works with her husband, Tom Pakele, in their Boulder, Colorado studio.

Garson’s personal mythology and dreams have always been integral to her work. Her lighthearted-seeming illustrations are a translation of the complexities of her interior emotional world. Garson’s expression thrives on diverse media, from narrative watercolors to ceramic works. Both are conducive to spontaneity, the exploration of which is endless. Additionally she now collages past intaglio prints into her acrylic and mixed media work, working both on canvas and ceramic. These pieces also incorporate found objects, often found in nature. 

Working with Judaica objects was another experiment that led to deeper engagement. She had the impulse to build and paint a menorah and was delighted with the result. Through this she was able to introduce a new aesthetic to the ceremonial objects used in the Jewish religion, incorporating whimsical imagery into her very personal expression and creating seder plates, Tzedakah boxes, Shabbat candlesticks, mezuzahs and all manner of Judaica.

Garson enjoys the liberation of exploring new techniques, continually being inspired, mystified, and challenged.