Making Goals

Each composition Sue Miller paints has specific technical goals to enhance the overall vision

- Sue Miller

Old Town Bar, oil on canvas, 24 x 36 (61 x 91 cm)

This is a painting of a classic New York prohibition-era bar that has kept its original personality from the 1800s. Strong perspective and contrasting values help create a dynamic image.

Evenings Golden Light, oil on canvas, 24 x 24 (61 x 61 cm)

My intention was to try to capture the intense light and colours that emerge from the setting sun.

I enjoy painting a variety of subject I matter to stay sharp and constantly learn new methods, colour mixtures and explore different compositions. Interior scenes are a good challenge as the lighting is such a crucial element when painting an image that is convincing to the viewer. The light also adds an additional element of interest and can evoke emotion in subtle ways. In this particular piece, The Great Debate, I tried to capture the play of strong luminous sunlight streaming through a window illuminating the darkroom, washing away some colours while contributing to the vibrancy of others. This scene has a wide range of light intensities from sun-drenched to very dimly lit areas. The sunlight completely changes the colours and even at times, the shapes of objects as well.