Susan Ward is an emerging artist who began her creative journey upon retirement at the age of 68. Guided by Art Gang mentor, Sue Loveday, and through self-directed YouTube learning, Susan has discovered a love of creating landscapes in acrylic and pastels. Susan uses her art to express a deep connection to the land through a lifelong passion for bushwalking.

Susan's practice also reflects her experience as a carer for her daughter who lives with epilepsy and autism, and the resilience required in the face of social isolation and bullying. More recently, Susan has extended her creativity into music as a volunteer with The Whoopee Do Crew, a band that celebrates music with people of all abilities.

This painting was inspired by the extraordinary rock formations I’ve encountered while bushwalking through the Granite Belt in South East Queensland. In many ways, it serves as my homage to these awe-inspiring features of the Australian landscape. In their presence, I feel both held and protected.