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Suzanne Jackson
SUZANNE JACKSON: NEWS! at ORTUZAR PROJECTS
Professional Background
Suzanne Jackson is an accomplished visual artist, educator, and designer based in the United States. With a career spanning over five decades, Suzanne has made significant contributions to the world of contemporary art. Her work has been showcased in numerous prestigious exhibitions and collections, marking her as a pivotal figure in the landscape of modern art. Jackson's artistic journey is characterized by her commitment to exploring themes of identity, culture, and social justice through a variety of mediums, including painting, drawing, and scenography.
Throughout her career, Suzanne has been affiliated with various esteemed institutions and organizations. She has exhibited her artwork in influential galleries and museums such as the Mnuchin Gallery in New York and the Brooklyn Museum, participating in landmark exhibitions like "Soul of a Nation: Art in the Age of Black Power". Her contributions to exhibitions such as "NOW DIG THIS! Art and Black Los Angeles 1960-1980" underscore her integral role in highlighting the narratives of Black art and artists.
Suzanne has also held various teaching positions where she has shared her expertise with budding artists. She was a professor of Fine Arts at Savannah State University and was involved in the Savannah College of Art and Design as a professor of Painting and Foundation Studies. A strong advocate for arts education, she has inspired many students to explore their creative potential and engage with contemporary artistic discourses.
Education and Achievements
Suzanne's educational background is rich and diverse, laying a strong foundation for her acclaimed career in the arts. She studied special techniques in drawing under the guidance of the legendary Charles White and watercolor painting with Noel Quinn at the Otis Art Institute. Her pursuit of knowledge did not stop there; she earned a Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Theatre Design and Technology from Yale University School of Drama in 1990, significantly broadening her artistic repertoire.
Additionally, Suzanne holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Fine/Studio Arts, Drama, and Dance from San Francisco State University. This multidisciplinary approach has enabled her to synthesize various art forms, making her work both innovative and impactful. The blend of her educational experiences in visual arts and performance has allowed her to create works that resonate with audiences on multiple levels.
Notable Exhibitions
Suzanne Jackson's exhibitions reflect her deep commitment to art as a vehicle for dialogue and community engagement. Some highlights of her exhibition history include:
- "OFF THE WALL" at Mnuchin Gallery, New York, NY (2021)
- "Suzanne Jackson" at Ortuzar Projects, New York, NY (November 2019)
- "SUZANNE JACKSON: FIVE DECADES" at Jepson Art Center, Savannah, GA (Date Not Specified)
- "Entanglements" at Laney Contemporary, Savannah, GA (June 2019)
- "Life Model: Charles White and His Students" at LACMA Charles White Elementary School Gallery, Los Angeles (Date Not Specified)
- "Soul of a Nation, Art in the Age of Black Power" at Brooklyn Museum, 2018
- Pacific Standard Time exhibitions like; "NOW DIG THIS! Art and Black Los Angeles 1960-1980" at the Hammer Museum and MoMA P.S.1
These exhibitions showcase her innovative approach and her ability to create thought-provoking conversations around art, identity, and history. Moreover, her works are included in collections such as the Indianapolis Museum of Art, California Museum of African American Art, and the Getty Research Institute, solidifying her presence in the canon of contemporary art.
Achievements
Suzanne Jackson's impressive achievement list includes not only her participation in selected exhibitions but also her ongoing dedication to fostering artistic practices among students and emerging artists. Her myriad roles, from studio artist to professor, demonstrate her versatility and commitment to the arts.
Through her entrepreneurial endeavors, including founding Sunflower Seed Productions, she has contributed to the cultural landscape by providing a platform for arts in various communities. Suzanne’s past work as a costume and scenic designer at major regional and national theater companies showcases her multifaceted talents and adaptability in the creative industries.
Additionally, her works have been recognized and collected by institutions around the world, including the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia, Liberia, and her inclusion in international catalogs such as the Prague Biennale. This wide-reaching acknowledgment illustrates not only her artistry but her ability to connect with diverse audiences globally.
Conclusion
Suzanne Jackson exemplifies the fusion of artistic innovation and educational excellence. With a career enriched by diverse educational backgrounds, notable exhibitions, and significant contributions to both the arts and academia, she serves as an inspiration to both artists and educators alike. Suzanne continues to challenge conventions and elevate the narrative of Black artists in contemporary art, ensuring her legacy will resonate for generations to come.
