Meet the artists: Susanna Heath

We asked each of the artists involved in the North Pennines Art Week about their work and what inspires them. Here’s what Susanna Heath, who is based in Weardale, had to say.

How did you get into art?
I was always arty. I used to paint the walls with shoe polish as a toddler, and having pencils and crayons always kept me quiet as a kid. The great thing about art is that there is always something to learn, so it is always interesting.

What do you find inspiring about working in the North Pennines?
What inspires me to paint is light and colour, which is plentiful in the North Pennines. I love the range of different landscapes from the fells, to the villages, to High Force. Each place has its own unique feel and makes my fingers itch for the my paint brushes.

What are your favourite places to work?
Out in the field. I love the paintings that happen when I’m racing the light and I don’t have time to think about it, I just paint and see what happens.

What would be your top tip for anyone just getting started with art?
To just start. Draw and paint and enjoy the process. Everything else will build from there.

Susanna also won the Rosemary and Co prize at Paint Out Norfolk 2021. Find out more on her website: susannaheath.com

Susanna is out and about around Bowlees and Low Force on 1-5 August, and leading an outdoor workshop on 7 August.