Spotlight Gallery: Susan Tudin celebrates nature in “Painting Algonquin Park”

I recently caught up with Susan to learn more about her connection to Ottawa, her artistic journey, and the Ottawa Little Theatre.

Tell us about yourself and the people who influenced you…

I was born in Barrie, Ontario, into a military family that moved frequently and eventually settled in Ottawa by the time I was ten. Summers spent playing outdoors at our family cottage on the Mississippi River fostered my lifelong love of nature, which continues to inspire my artwork today.
My mother was my first artistic influence, teaching us sewing, colour coordination, and design. She used to sew beautiful dresses for us girls from the tons of colourful fabric my father brought back from Egypt where he served as part of Canada’s first peacekeeping mission. I particularly loved Batik which was popular in the 1970s. Later, my sister and brother-in-law—art and antique collectors—were influential as they always had acquired something new for me to discover each time I visited.

In the early 2000s, my art instructors, including Ottawa artists Janet Agulnik, Sheila Davis and Susan Ashbrook helped me develop technique, confidence, and an emotional approach to painting. They were instrumental in teaching me not only technique but to ‘paint what you see so you can interpret what you know best’ and to also not fear making mistakes.

Did you work professionally in the arts?

I did not study art formally, but my 35-year career at Carleton University Library allowed me to curate exhibits and collaborate closely with colleagues in the arts as well as with environmental scholars, deepening my appreciation for the natural world.

Describe the work you are exhibiting. 

This exhibition, Painting Algonquin Park, celebrates my experiences camping and paddling in the park over the past decade. Inspired by its landscapes, wildlife, and artistic history, I use bold colour and mixed media (such as a map, twigs, and pinecone) to capture both memory and emotion.

For inspiration, Algonquin Park has so much rugged wilderness to explore whether on foot, by canoe, or bicycle. The sights and sounds of nature are so exhilarating and such a change from urban life:  From the light filtering through the trees to dramatic sunsets over the lakes; to the sounds of owls hooting at night, the echo of a loon’s call, or the constant drumming of woodpeckers awakening you from your tent. Finally, I cannot help but be inspired by the famous work of earlier artists which is why three of my paintings are in tribute to Tom Thomson: Campfire, Pine Trees at Sunset and Sunset Lake Pines.

Do you have any favourite works on display?

My canoe paintings are favourites, reflecting both the park’s Indigenous history and the quiet intimacy of paddling. These works draw stylistic influence from Tom Thomson and Frank Carmichael. I used energetic brushstrokes à la Thomson for Paddle Up, and a quieter brush and soft colours for Pog Lake Serenity and Sunset Paddle, which were the hallmarks of Frank Carmichael. 

For me, each piece is a work of pure joy and an investment in not only happiness, but also memory and a deep appreciation for the natural environment of the park.

What is your link to Ottawa Little Theatre?

My husband, Bruce, was an actor and singer in his teenage days with the Rideau Youth Theatre Group, so we have always enjoyed live theatre. We love the intimate environment that the OLT offers and our many shared experiences. My sincerest thanks to the Ottawa Little Theatre for the opportunity to display my art!