ABOUT

 Susannah Israel 

    The visual parade of urban life is a potent source for my inspiration. Crisp and vivid or fleeting and fugitive, a constant montage of images provides me with rich reference material while at work in the studio. The figure takes the center stage, as narrator, actor and symbol. 
     My artistic practice is a fusion of planning, process, and discovery. I begin with a series of drawings to develop a concept; I make notes about clay color, texture and finishes; when working directly with the material, I am alert to its expressive possibilities. 
     My approach to my materials is a combination of well-practiced skill and reckless disregard for established convention. I willingly sacrifice lifelike anatomy to questions of composition and gesture. I use both high and low-fire clays. A confirmed alchemist, I am always testing new formulas. I use nontraditional materials with clay - paint, metal, found objects, - when they serve the work best. I tell students "Use all your options," and I actually do take my own advice. 

 from perception to realization

  "The creations of award-winning California artist Susannah Israel reflect a deep understanding of       our collective past." 

combustus.com/california-clay-artist/ 

                        Reviews and Conversations

"There is a vast landscape over these pieces that required close attention. Each piece (is) an invitation to a long conversation with the viewer.  I wanted to hang out with them, pull up a chair, get to know them, hear stories about them - like I feel when I read a good book."   

http://bigoceanblue.blogspot.com/2011/04/susannah-israel-workshopsolo-exhibition.html