Local artist John Suess is currently showcasing his captivating paintings at the Clement Manor Life Enriched Art Gallery (3939 S. 92nd Street, Greenfield) through October 31, 2024.
The exhibition, which is free and open to the public daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., features 16 original paintings by Suess, including a vibrant selection of florals and landscapes inspired by local scenery. Many of the pieces highlight the rich colors of autumn, with bright oranges, yellows, and reds depicted in a series of seasonal landscapes. In addition, several brand new pieces, including “Looking Up: Flowering Dogwood” and “Reflections: Dappled Sun,” make their debut in this show.
Born and raised in Milwaukee, Suess, 76, began his artistic journey at the age of 3. After attending Milwaukee Area Technical College for commercial art, he realized his true passion lay in fine art. He later transferred to UW-Milwaukee, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in ancient history and a master’s degree in library science.
Suess worked for 34 years in the Milwaukee Public Library system, primarily in the Central Science and Business Department, where he met his wife, Mary, who is also a retired librarian.
Since retiring in 2007, Suess has devoted his time to painting, along with tending his award-winning garden, photographing nature, and playing golf. He has created more than 150 works of art, many of which have been sold or gifted to family and friends.
Working primarily in acrylics and occasionally in oils, Suess describes his style as a blend of impressionism, tonalism, color field, and realism. His favorite subjects are landscapes, especially those inspired by the Wisconsin scenery he encounters in his daily life.
“I find my inspiration outdoors. Whether I’m working in my garden, playing golf, or simply enjoying a walk or drive, the beauty of nature often captures my attention. I love bringing these scenes to life on canvas,” Suess said.
In 2019, Suess was commissioned by his parish, Christ King, to create several works in celebration of its 80th anniversary. His largest piece, "Christ the King," a 30x40 acrylic on gesso board, is on permanent display inside the church. Four other paintings, capturing the church’s iconic steeple in each season, are on view in the vestibule.
Suess’ work has been exhibited in public libraries throughout Wisconsin, as well as at Vista 59 Artisan Boutique and Gallery in Milwaukee, ArtFindZ Gallery in Hartford, and Creative Edge Art Gallery in Twin Lakes. He was the featured artist at the Park People Gala in 2022 and was part of the "Modern Landscape" exhibition at Redline Milwaukee in 2018.
“I’m thrilled to present my art at Clement Manor. It's a joy to share my passion for capturing the beauty of our surroundings with a new audience. Art has the power to connect us, especially after the isolation of recent years. I hope my work brings a sense of peace and inspiration to all who visit,” Suess said.
Clement Manor is a faith-based continuing care retirement community located at 3939 S. 92nd Street, Greenfield, WI. The Life Enriched Art Center Gallery is located near the main entrance to the Health Center and is open to the public daily, free of charge, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
In addition to his exhibit at Clement Manor, Suess is thrilled to have four of his paintings selected for the "Wisconsin Inspired" exhibition at Nadiana Art Gallery (4818 S. 76th St #6, Greenfield, WI). This juried group show highlights visual artworks related to the beauty of our great state, a theme that resonates strongly in Suess' vibrant landscapes and nature-focused paintings. The exhibition will be on display from September 13 to October 21, 2024.
Suess’ complete collection can be viewed on his website at JohnSuessFineArt.com and fans can follow him on Instagram and Facebook. Many of his pieces are available for sale on Etsy but visitors to the exhibit can enjoy special pricing on the works included in the show by contacting John directly via his website.
