This piece is one of 3 small acrylic paintings I did for the annual "Fiesta de Frida" at the El Paso's Finest Gift Shop in downtown El Paso, TX. It is one example of a bas relief piece which introduces small shapes made of polymer clay to an otherwise flat surface. This gives the paintings a little extra dimension and creates shadows that periodically change, depending on the light. This one, titled "Fight the Patriarchy"is a personal favorite. I have always been interested in the relationship between Frida Kahlo and her longtime husband, famed muralist Diego Rivera, due in part to my relationship with my husband Jerry, who is also an artist. How their relationship inspired and how it was reflected in their work
Women in art have always had to fight to be seen, and we must continue fighting to make sure our voices are not silenced for ever.

Hola from Scenic Drive in El Paso, Texas!

As an older person, I can't help but be worried about the state of my country, and indeed the world itself. I am a child of the 60's and 70's and it has been horrifying to watch the US slide backwards to revive the racism, the sexism, and hatred and oppression, of our checkered past. I thought we were evolving. (sad emoji). But I still hold out hope that the arc of history will end up bending towards justice. (prayer emoji)

The unrest has made me think about my role at this point in history as a painter. It is a role I take very seriously. I believe it is the duty of artists to meet the moment and bear witness. That is what the art I have made over the last year means to me. Check out some of the newest pieces in my galleries and let me know what you think.

In the end, we must find joy in our lives. Art can be a road into that practice.

Get out into nature, watch a sunrise, eat a perfectly ripe peach, talk or text your friends, and look at art as often as you can.

With Love,
Susan 2026

My work can be found at these local stores, check them out, each one is unique in its own way and I am so grateful for their support:

"El Paso's Finest" 314 North Mesa St. (in downtown El Paso).

"The Ysleta Mission Gift Shop" 131 S Zaragoza Rd. (on the Mission Trail).


I also do local festivals and fairs so please follow me on Instagram @susanwesterperez to see where I will be next.

Have a question for me? Send me a message with all the details and I'll get back to you soon. Thank you for visiting.