Oil Painting
Suzanne Lawson
Suzanne Lawson is a Western Australian artist known for her contemporary painterly realism.
Artist Profile
Suzanne Lawson is a Western Australian artist known for her contemporary painterly realism. Working primarily in oils, she explores portraiture and figurative work with a focus on light, form and emotional depth. Drawing on traditional techniques, Suzanne builds her paintings through layered transparencies, creating works that feel both intimate and timeless. Based in East Fremantle, she has exhibited widely and been recognised in major national awards.
Artist Interview
What medium do you work with, and why have you chosen them?
Oil paint is my preferred medium. I love the immediacy of the paint and working by building up transparent layers. This enables me to paint with depth yet also gives me the flexibility to create smooth transitions and subtle variations within the painting.
How does your artwork get from initial concept to exhibition stage?
Usually I work on a theme or an idea that I like to weave throughout the body of work. I start with sketching out my vision, focusing on composition and colour harmony. Creating a sense of cohesion is important to me – works that flow together and carry emotional narrative.
Can you tell us a little more about your creative working environment/studio?
My creative working environment is rarely tidy! I like to get working in my studio in the morning when I feel fresh and full of ideas. My day / life often pulls me in different directions, but if I have a full day of painting ahead of me – it’s pure bliss!
Career Highlights
- Finalist in the National Emerging Art Prize 2022
- Finalist in the Portia Geach Memorial Award 2023
- Solo and Group exhibitions
