This week's featured artist is a wife, mother and former art teacher. When she's not on Long Island, she enjoys visiting her second home in Florida where she discovered the art of painting on palm fronds. Let's meet Suzanne!
Name: Suzanne Rall-Smith, 49
Hometown: Bay Shore, NY
Occupation: Substitute teacher
Craft: Hand painted palm fronds
Web site: srallsmith.etsy.com
How did you get into your painting palm fronds?
About a year after I purchased my house in Florida, several hurricanes hit and left a lot of debris. Many palm trees were shaken so hard that the palm frond boots were scattered all over the place. While cleaning up, I thought they had a unique shape and were a beautiful wood surface on which to paint, so I began painting on them creating masks and fish.
Where do you find inspiration?
I find inspiration from people-watching and viewing other artists work.
What's your best craft tip?
The best tip for this craft is to make sure you prepare the surface. I clean the palm frond and seal it first and then I paint on top of the sealer. Otherwise, the paint absorbs into the wood and you get an irregular line.
What craft would you like to try next?
I am thinking about trying to create a line of jewelry that incorporates natural materials and my artwork.
Where do you get your supplies?
Well, the supplies for the palm fronds are found on the ground in Englewood, Florida. I buy most of my art supplies (paints, canvas, etc.) at Pearl Paint.
What are your favorite local craft stores?
I go to Michaels in New York and Florida. Also, I like Craft Depot in Florida.
What's your biggest challenge?
My biggest challenge is having enough time in the day to do everything I want.
Do you have any advice for beginners?
My advice for beginners is to choose a craft that you love to do.
What do you do when you're not crafting?
I paint on canvas in a more traditional manner using mainly oil paints. I like to bicycle, walk and surf the Internet.
Why do you love your particular craft?
I really love the palm fronds because they are something that is discarded by people. I feel like I am helping the environment in a small way. I love the natural wood and the unique shape of each palm frond boot. As I paint them, it seems that each piece takes on a personality of its own.
For more information about Suzanne's palm frond art, visit her online:
srallsmith.etsy.com or send an e-mail to: argosfl@yahoo.com.
