Meet Susan Paige | Artist, Art Curator and Best Selling Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Susan Paige and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Susan, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
After graduating with a BA, Art Northern Illinois University I moved to Arizona in 1979. I had no contacts here, but I was determined to start my art career by getting a gallery assistant job in Scottsdale in the top contemporary art gallery., which I did. I networked and learned all I could in the art scene. A year latter I was approached to start up an avant garde gallery in downtown Phoenix. In the early 80’s young emerging artists in Arizona had difficulty getting representation in the Scottsdale galleries. So I took a leap and took the job as gallery manager of the John Douglas Cline Gallery on Central in Phoenix. There were no other art businesses on Central ave except for The Phoenix Museum. We exhibited the very talented local emerging artist, painters, sculptors, performance and video artists. Through my marketing skills I was able to get lots of press for my exhibits and events. I attracted collectors from around the valley and the gallery was very successful. Taking a risk to promote emerging artists was fulfilling and fun. I am still doing it today at the OneOhOne Gallery in downtown Mesa where I also share an art studio with my husband, Barry.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have been in the art business for forty five years. I have had other careers and businesses along the way, but I have always exhibited my art, curated exhibits and stayed active in art leagues. I feel my longevity in the art business comes from my marketing and networking skills.
I have always supported local emerging artists by including them in the exhibits I have curated and sponsored over the years.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
For art and culture, 2nd Friday Out in Downtown Mesa, Heard Museum MIM, and Superstition Museum. Republica Empanadas and Il Vinaio both in Downtown Mesa for unique cuisines. Eclectic shopping experience in Downtown Mesa.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My Mother, today 95 years old, enrolled me in my first art class at the age of ten at the Art Institute of Chicago. She also kept me in music, dance and theater throughout my young years through my early twenties. Her support and keeping me inspired in all facets of creativity has fueled my art career.

Other: Paige Artists Studio and Gallery , 101 W. Main Street. In the historic OneOhOne building in downtown Mesa 214-207-9277

Image Credits
I couldn’t upload a photo I would like to email u a photo I’d myself separately