About the Artist - Susan Rand
Artist Susan Rand absolutely loves what she does. In fact, she knew from the age of 10 that she would be an artist, as she was crafty, drew a lot and was generally creative in all aspects of life. In her eyes, there were no lines between art worlds. This craftiness led to a scholarship to attend the Maryland Institute, College of Art in Baltimore, Md.
However, on registration day, she had to choose between a graphic or fine art curriculum. “I couldn’t choose both. How could I choose half of myself? My mom suggested I be practical and go commercial so I could at least get a job,” she said. So that’s what she did and earned a BFA in Visual Communications in 1988, starting her career as an illustrator and storyboard artist in Baltimore.
In a move Susan describes as “unfortunate,” she relocated to Pensacola, Fla. to be closer to family. Then life happened: “I fell in love, had a kid, got divorced and have been trapped in the Deep South ever since.” In the meantime, she worked successfully as a graphic artist for over 20 years in advertising and publishing.
“By the time I made Creative Director, I was good and tired of the sterile world of computers. Then I met my soul mate and was inspired to pursue my own art. It was time to see what I had to offer, see what my soul was made of and see if I could express it in a tangible way as art. That meant creating a medium that communicates my way. Plus, I didn’t have to exclude my graphic side or craft side. Their influences are evident in every piece I make,” Susan said.
Susan’s work is all about the feminine, realized in clean, elegant and beautifully curved lines. Her goal is to empower people, especially women, through her art. “I feel strongly that there needs to be an equal balance of male and female energy in this world. Unfortunately, that is too often not the case. The feminine spirit is kept down and unable to flourish and the world suffers for it. It is critical that females be encouraged and supported. That’s where I come in. Women need to know how amazing they are. Men need to know it, too.”
Her biggest fan, who happens to be a man, gushes and describes her work as “laid-back and thoughtful. It’s pretty without being loud. It’s introspective without being dark. It’s feminine without being overtly sexual. It makes women feel good about themselves and how cool they are, without a struggle for power.” This “fan” also happens to be Susan’s husband, Russ Maines.
Susan’s work is colorful and infused with love and positive energy. To see it in person is amazing. Chances are you have probably never seen anything like it. “I learned all of the traditional art mediums in school, but those methods were not for me. I think of my art as a physical representation of my heart and soul; it reflects all the different aspects of my creative personality. All pieces are designed to make you feel good... and me too! That’s my goal anyway.”
To inquire, see more or purchase Susan Rand’s art log onto www.susanrand.net or email Susan at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
NikO is glad to work on portrait and other fine art commissions. He is represented at I. Pinckney Simons Gallery on Bay Street in historic, downtown Beaufort, S.C. and conducts business independently from his online gallery. Check out NikO’s collection of fine art at www.nikoartonline.com.
