The Artist - Susan Norman
Susan Norman is a fibre artist living in Paris, Ontario. She is a graduate of the Ontario College of Art and Design (1987), where she developed a broad knowledge of art disciplines that included an emphasis on textiles. Most of her themes are inspired from nature and result in both realistic and abstract works of art. When creating a piece, fabrics are selected and cut out in appropriate shapes to form a wash of background colour. Once tacked onto a piece of muslin backing, Susan uses a sewing machine to “paint” in the details. The machine is set so the fabric can be moved in any direction as she sews — essentially directing the thread like one would a pencil.


Susan Norman has spent most of her life in a rural setting. This environment has influenced her personal values that include a desire to see society maintain a balance between the needs of mankind and nature. It is one of the driving forces behind why she creates art. Susan's most recent works explore her fascination with the emotional experiences of life. The work captures the impact of a moment such as a turbulent sky or burst of floral colour, and draws on the parallels we experience internally and externally.

Susan Norman’s art continues to evolve, but there will always be a thread that connects her to nature, colour, pattern, and the desire to create something beautiful and unique. These elements have been caught in her web and sustain her.