Intimate: An Artist & the Natural World

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“The greatest flower artists have been those who have found beauty in truth; who have understood plants scientifically, but who have yet seen and described them with the eye and hand of the artist.”

– Professor Peter R. Crane FRS, former Director and CEO of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

June 1 – July 12, 2020

There are hints of Spring! Susan Bull Riley’s watercolors chronicle the emergence and progression of a magical and long-awaited season.

Bull Riley paints in the millennia-long tradition of plant portraiture. Like those before her, she may depict plants for scientific goals, but her evident success suggests a joy in studying a plant closely to reveal their endlessly fascinating form and color.

Susan grew up in Vermont and spent more time outside than in. These paintings suggest she may still. Time indoors is spent painting the observations of her day, so it is no surprise that birds and other creatures make an appearance. She brings to them the same affection and close observation that exemplify her botanical and landscape paintings.

More about Susan Bull Riley

“My surroundings, and careful observation of the natural world, are my constant inspirations. Indeed, there is enough beauty around my East Montpelier home to fuel lifetimes of painting. I am also inspired by the wondrous play of light upon everything I see. I strive to capture that light and to play with broad sweeps of color – with watercolor.

My academic training is entirely in music performance rather than visual art. I received my undergraduate degree from Dartmouth and my graduate degree from the New England Conservatory of Music. Painting has always been a private and deeply personal part of my life, but for 22 years has been the sole focus of my professional energy. 

I live and work in a renovated schoolhouse with my husband, the musician Richard Riley. Our daughters are grown. Life is further celebrated with the presence of two grandchildren.