The Martha's Vineyard Times

The art of Suesan Stovall

August 24, 2011

Photo courtesy of Suesan Stovall

One of Suesan Stovall's images that create mystery, meaning and the power to affect its viewers. [More Photos]

One doesn't need to understand multifaceted artist Suesan Stovall to respond to her artwork. Her compact, densely constructed, multimedia paintings are fraught with layered meanings, all subject to individual interpretation. But should the viewer simply prefer to react to color, texture, and design, Ms. Stovall's work would be equally effective.

"I don't know where it comes from," she says. "It just comes. There are so many influences."

Ms. Stovall, who owns and operates Groovy Sue's Gallery in Oak Bluffs, is opening a collection of her new work at a reception on Sunday, Aug. 28, from 2 to 7 pm.

An actress and singer as well as a visual artist, she generates a contagious enthusiasm as she talks about art, inspiration, energy and the connection among them.

"There are bands of energy that are infinite," she says, "and they bring gifts with them; gifts of moments, of people, and of experiences."

Her artwork often includes collages of written words, image and phrases, along with photos, often old images of African-Americans.

"I'm a showman," Ms. Stovall says, sounding jubilant. "And there's a reason behind it. There is a purpose, and that is that someone will be affected."

It would be difficult not to be moved – provoked, entertained, or simply intrigued – by the force of her personality that she transmits to her work.

Opening reception for Suesan Stovall's collection of new work at Groovy Sue's, Sunday, Aug. 28, from 2 to 7 pm. Music and refreshments. Groovy Sue's, 9 Spruce Avenue, Oak Bluffs. 323-842-1076.