Artist statement 

Suzanne McCrave is a Sydney-based abstract artist whose practice is driven by an intuitive, process-led approach to painting. Working primarily with acrylic paint, oil stick, crayon, and pencil, she embraces the unpredictability of materials, allowing each work to unfold through a conversation between gesture, surface, and emotion. Her work moves between moments of chaos and calm, reflecting both spontaneous energy and quiet reflection. Influenced by feminist theories of agency and embodiment, Suzanne explores how abstract mark-making can hold and communicate presence. Recent works reveal a deep engagement with the physical act of painting and the deliberate randomness that arises when she stands before the canvas and lets the paint lead.

Suzanne McCrave                                                                                                                     

Born in 1969 in Wallasey, England

Resides and works in Sydney, Australia

Education/training:

1999-2003: Vis Arts/ B.A. Australia Catholic University, Sydney, Australia

2017 Charlie Sheard: The Techniques, Methods and Materials of Painting (1 term course).

Residencies:

2024 Wendy McDonald: Art Retreat, Hattah National Park, Vic

2021 Jo Davenport: Art Retreat, Albury, NSW

2019 Felicity O'Connor: Painters Retreat Avoca Beach, NSW Central Coast

2015 Jacqueline Coates: Barossa residency, South Australia