Susan Haywood-Smith

Susan grew up in New Zealand where she completed a Bachelor or Arts and a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Auckland. In 1996 Susan’s passion for printmaking was sparked when she studied etching under Jonathon Purdy at the Auckland Society of Arts. Upon moving to Australia Susan completed two courses in printmaking, the first in 2002 at the Warringah Printmakers Studio, studying Photopolymer under Jan Melville and the second in 2003 at the Warringah Printmakers Studio studying Mixed Media also under Jan Melville.

Susan has exhibited extensively since 2002 in both Auckland and Sydney, she participated in the UK - Bristol Spike Island Printmakers in May 2007 and the Canadian – Atelier Circulaire Oct in 2004. Susan’s work has featured in a publication compiled by the Warringah Printmakers Studio that is to be distributed amongst Chinese galleries, leading to an exhibition in Shanghai. In 2003 Susan received a Highly Commended at the Capricorn Coast Art Festival.

“Through my art, I desire for the viewer to share in my experience of the beauty of Pacific Island cultures, Aotearoa and their people, and to discover the story within each piece.

The Polynesian simplification of form such as the Tivaevae quilts, Kowhaiwhai designs and Tukutuku panels, alongside my celtic lineage and affiliations with the Te Arawa Tribe, have impressed upon me the beauty of strong simple lines.

My subject matter has also been influenced by my deep love of nature. I choose images that I strongly associate with the subtropical environment of my upbringing, such as the Hibiscus and Frangipani flowers. The colour red is a constant theme throughout my work, reflecting my passion for the South Pacific and its people.”