“NATURAL COMFORTS:
An invitation to seek rest in nature. Inspired by forest hikes, sunset swims, and long talks.”
Susanna planned a colorful and lively art show, but the recent fires in the Maui community left her feeling uninspired and unable to create. We postponed the exhibition so she could focus on helping her neighbors and grieving with loved ones.
Sewing Memories
As we continue to be surrounded by loss and grief, it's easy to forget the serenity that can be found in nature. Our latest exhibition is a visual grief after the fires in Lahaina and an invitation to seek solace in the natural world around us. Inspired by forest hikes, sunset swims, and long talks, this exhibition celebrates the beauty of nature and reminds us to take a step back and enjoy the simple things in life. Join us on this journey of self-discovery through grief as we explore the power of nature to heal and rejuvenate our souls.
Woodblock Prints
Susanna's woodblock prints pay tribute to the resilience and beauty of nature, particularly in the aftermath of Hawaii's most catastrophic fire. Through her art, she celebrates the natural colors and intricate details of the land/ ‘āina, reminding us of the importance of cherishing and protecting our environment/ mālama ‘āina. Susanna's work is a testament to the power of art to inspire and uplift, even in challenging times.
Susanna's art embodies the beauty of Hawaii's natural environment. Drawing on her experience as an artist and island resident, she creates intricate silhouettes of native flora and vibrant depictions of ocean life. Each piece is crafted with intention, reflecting her respect and reverence for the natural world around her. Susanna's work is a beautiful tribute to the stunning landscape that surrounds us and a testament to the power of art to inspire and uplift the human spirit.
Susanna Cromwell's
love for island life began with the stories her immigrant parents shared about their home on the islands of Cape Verde. Born in Dorchester, Massachusetts, she grew up with a fascination for the vibrant culture and natural beauty of island living. In 2007, she married a "Surfer Boy" from the North Shore of Oahu, and together, they moved to Maui to start their own island life with their four young children.
As an artist, Susanna draws inspiration from the natural beauty that surrounds her, combining traditional Indian and Japanese block printing techniques with non-conventional stamping methods to create unique Aloha Prints and Botanical artwork with a vintage Hawaiian feel. Her work celebrates the vibrant flowers, plants, and ocean life of Hawaii, as well as the people who call these islands home. Working alongside her husband Reed, who crafts the frames for her artwork by hand, Susanna's art captures the essence of island living and the spirit of the people who thrive in Hawaii's lush jungles and pristine seas.
Beauty of Island Life
Bring the beauty of island living into your home or workspace with Susanna's woodblock prints. Her tangible memories feature materials from the islands themselves, creating a stunning and authentic expression of Hawaii's natural environment. Each piece is crafted with care and intention, reflecting her deep connection to the land and sea around her. Add a touch of Aloha to your decor and be reminded of the power of art to connect us to the world around us.
Artist Statement
I had planned a colorful and lively art show, but the recent fires in my community left me feeling uninspired and unable to create. I postponed the show to focus on helping my neighbors and grieving with loved ones.
As the deadline approached, I still struggled to feel creative, but with art as my primary source of income, I had to try. Remembering Picasso's quote, "Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working," I sat in my truck during football practice, prayed for inspiration, and grabbed a scrap of paper and a child's pencil. I found a clamshell in my change compartment from that found on a Lahaina beach before the fire, and for the next two hours, I drew and drew until I finally felt relief … that night, I slept better than I had in weeks.
I wanted others to experience that same sense of comfort, so I turned my drawing into a carved block, a print, and a whole series of artwork in warm, comforting tones. Each piece in the series represents hope for the future and memories of simpler times.
Online Shopping will be available on 10/28/23 for Susanna L. Cromwell’s originals from “NATURAL COMFORTS” Exhibition. Sign up to our newsletter to not miss the online announcement.
Artist: Susanna Cromwell
Type: Original Block Printing Paper Quilt
Frame Size: 41.5" x 41.5" x 2"