SUSAN FREDA 96 SC

Susan Freda Studios

Based in Riverside, RI

How does your current creative practice tie into your time spent at RISD?

The seeds of the work that I am making now were planted during my time at RISD. I first developed my weaving technique and my interest in light, line, and transparency while still a student, and it was also at RISD that I had the first sale of my artwork at my senior show. My time there gave me the room to explore my inner drives and put me in touch with that vast world of inspiration that is within.

How have you dealt with the challenge of maintaining a creative practice that feeds your soul but also helps pay the bills?

I have learned to become a business owner and have taken business classes so that I can make my work full time and also pay the bills from my work. The time in the studio is cherishes and what I really love to do but I need to devote 40% of my time to running the business, marketing and accounting in order to do this full time. Its a balancing act but it’s working for me.

Any recent press, exhibitions, achievements or awards you’d like to share with us?

My two person show “Alchemical Reactions” at the Chazan Gallery with Allison Paschke was recently reviewed by Art New England in the March/April edition. I’m also currently juggling a series of sculpture commissions, some of which are for outdoor display.

To see more of Susan’s work, visit www.susanfredastudios.com