Iowa Women Artists Oral History Project

The Iowa Women Artists Oral History Project records and preserves the voices of women visual artists in Iowa reflecting on their lives and their artwork. In 1998, creator and director Jane Robinette began interviewing Iowa women artists about their experiences and art practices. The interviews cover family and personal history, education, development as an artist, artwork, creative process, influences, and more. The Daily Palette is pleased to present excerpts of the Iowa Women Artists Oral History Project's 2008 updates that Robinette collected from the Project artists who were interviewed nine or ten years ago. Visit the Iowa Women Artists Oral History Project's website.

SUSAN COLEMAN
Sanctuary #3, pastel on toned paper, 18" x 22", 2007

Susan Coleman was born and raised in rural eastern Missouri. She received her BFA in drawing from Webster College, in St. Louis, and her MA (drawing) and MFA (painting) from the University of Iowa. Susan has shown in venues throughout the Midwest and Eastern United States. Her work focuses on landscape themes encountered in the local environment.

How has your artwork changed in the last ten years?
I'm sure my artwork has changed in some ways in the past ten years, but I think the changes are subtle. I'm still very much moved by what I see around me. The issue of visual metaphor is still essential to my practice. Sometimes I think it's easier for the audience to see the changes than for the maker of the work.

What motivates you to continue making art?
I still feel that need to continue making art. It's a big part of my spiritual practice. When I neglect to allow myself time in the studio, something feels off. It's like a breathing space for me.

Continue excerpt at the Iowa Women Artists Oral History Project