ARTIST STATEMENT

Growing up in northern Minnesota, with its rugged beauty, is where I found my inspiration. I also grew up the daughter of Betty D. Brown, a well-loved area watercolorist who spent decades creating and teaching in the Carlton area. In 2006, I decided to give painting a try, and with my first brushstroke on that white piece of paper, I was never turning back.

Watercolor is a fascinating medium; one that you can control if you want to, but one that is more fun to let loose. I like to paint a variety of subjects in a variety of styles; I believe that painting outside of my “comfort zone” allows me to stretch my imagination and learn new techniques. My favorite subject matter is my interpretation of the beauty found in northern Minnesota. I grew up right next to Jay Cooke State Park, and I especially like to use a combination of paint and collage to form scenes from the north woods.

I enjoy teaching watercolor workshops throughout the year, and I’m a member of the Arrowhead Art Club and am currently serving as the president of Artists of Minnesota.

Being an artist is a continual learning process, and I’m enjoying the journey immensely.

Sue Brown Chapin