Biography.
With a background in English literature and design, Susanna Patras’ work explores various themes, such as impermanence, or healing through the use of color and art. Her artistic process is a meditative exploration that marries the introspective qualities of poetry with the visual storytelling inherent in photography.
Although she loved to paint as a child, Susanna Patras started writing poetry in high school and interned at a local newspaper while in college. After moving to the US, she won several poetry awards and was invited to read during the opening ceremony at Austin International Poetry Festival in Texas.
Her photographic work has been juried into more than 40 national and international exhibitions, such as Art Fluent Gallery in Boston, MA; Sasse Museum of Art in Pomona CA; N. Tonitza Art Gallery in Iasi, Romania; PH21 Gallery in Budapest, Hungary; NYC4PA (New York Center for Photographic Arts), NY; Photonostrum – Mediterranean House of Photography in Barcelona, Spain; SNAC – The National Museum of Technology in Bucharest, Romania; Marin Society of Artists in San Rafael, CA; Colonia Pictorilor Baia Mare in Baia Mare, Romania; Houston Center for Photography in TX; Blank Wall Gallery in Athens, Greece; Chania Center of Mediterranean Architecture in Chania, Greece; Praxis Gallery, PhotoPlace Gallery, A. Smith Gallery in Johnson City, TX.
Susanna Patras is a member of the American Photographic Artists (APA), Visual Artists’ Union in Romania (UAPR-Iasi), and Manhattan Arts International in New York.
Her photographs have been published in Landscape Photography Magazine, Dodho Magazine, Light – A Journal of Photography and Poetry (featured series), Daily Mail Newspaper, Art Ascent – Art & Literature Journal (Distinguished Artist, 2024), and others.
Education
THOMAS EDISON STATE UNIVERSITY
Bachelor of Arts in English Literature
SESSIONS COLLEGE FOR PROFESSIONAL DESIGN
Master’s Certificate in Multimedia
CALARTS/California Institute of the Arts
UI/UX Design Specialization
ADOBE
Marketing Specialist Professional Specialization
PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS
Santa Fe Photo Workshops, Maine Media Workshops, Houston Center for Photography, Long Island Photo Workshops,, New York Institute of Photography
Artist Statement.
My photography is a pursuit of quiet expression through abstract and minimalist compositions. Abstract photography serves as a canvas of limitless freedom, a gentle dance of emotion and energy through the lens. This creative exploration is a journey into the heart, where the spirit of experimentation leads the dance away from the representational norms.
In this context, nature is a constant source of inspiration, imbuing my work with a subtle vocabulary that I aim to translate through the use of modern techniques. I frequently employ multiple exposures, light painting, intentional camera movement, and digital/traditional painting to create what I think of as a visual symphony – an immersive experience that invites viewers to forge deeper connections with my images. In this symphony, each element of light and motion carries emotional resonance and vitality, echoing the power of art to heal.
My creative process is a meditative, flow-like state where technical experimentation and intuitive expression merge seamlessly. This balance enables me to transform my camera into a sacred instrument of self-discovery, capturing raw and authentic emotions.
Rooted in my background in poetry, my imagery resonates with the spirit of haiku – simple, yet never simplistic. As poet Octavio Paz famously said: “I do not see with my eyes: the words are my eyes”. (Paz, 1990) Photography is a metaphor for “light”, in which the imagination and the poetic “eye” are largely used to create new worlds.
Minimalism to me is about distilling the essence of a subject, creating space for subtlety and contemplation within the frame. Using a minimal visual language, I hope to evoke feelings of relaxation, joy, and solace in viewers.
Ultimately, my goal is to offer art that connects to nature and fosters healing through color and nature – inspired forms. Each photograph aims to be a quiet place of respite, where viewers may find comfort and inspiration. As my artistic journey continues, I seek to deepen this exploration of emotional energy and visual storytelling, evolving my work to further touch the spaces between perception, feeling, and reflection.