Small strokes making a big impact: meet local artist, Suzy King, who is bringing Balmain to life - one tiny canvas at a time.
Have you ever just looked up? Local artist Suzy King has, and it completely changed her perspective—and her art. While wandering through her beloved Balmain, she noticed the intricate details and stunning architecture that often go unnoticed above eye level. This newfound appreciation inspired her to capture these hidden gems in her signature small paintings, capturing the soul of the Balmain neighbourhood.
“Like many others, I loved drawing as a child. I’ve always been an artist at heart,” Suzy reflects, recalling her childhood filled with crayons, pencils and countless drawing pads. After finishing school, Suzy completed a Fine Art Diploma at Hornsby TAFE College. “It was fantastic as it covered many other disciplines, apart from drawing and painting, like sculpture, photography, design and history” she explains. But as life unfolded, Suzy took a detour into graphic design, even snagging a few design awards along the way. “Even with a great gig in corporate identity, my heart was still tethered to fine art.”
The Birth of Very Small Paintings
The idea for Suzy’s "Very Small Paintings" was born on a serendipitous day on Beattie Street. “Our office was smack bang between two pubs, right in front of a row of heritage buildings” Suzy recalls, it was the perfect inspiration. Inspired by a Canadian artist who painted small works, Suzy decided to embark on her own pint-sized painting adventure. But unlike her Canadian counterpart, don’t expect to find these gems on Etsy! Suzy sells her art directly, allowing her to keep her prices reasonable, and the purchase process a personal one. You may even get a meet and greet!
Painting Success
The decision to paint full-time led to an unexpected solo exhibition in Bowral. “Terrifying!” Suzy admits, “I didn’t know much about galleries back then, but it turned into a wonderful learning experience.” That exhibition was a hit, propelling Suzy further into her art career. Today is proudly a Fellow of Marine Artists Australia - as voted by some of Australia’s best marine artists, a huge testament to her talent. “The Fellowship feels like a huge compliment, it is incredible to be recognised by such talented peers. I feel very lucky!”
Balmain: A Love Letter on Canvas
For 25 years, Suzy has called Balmain home. “I adore this community,” she beams. “It’s friendly and cosy—it feels like one big family.” This affection spills over into her art, where Balmain often takes centre stage. A decade ago, a competition prompted her to see her neighbourhood in a new light. “The tops of the old buildings I had been walking past for years and never noticed, were beautiful. The blue sky beyond the ornate and relatively untouched facades highlights them. The light constantly changes so they always look different” she explains.
When asked about her favourite pieces, Suzy is stumped. “White Bay Power Station is always a winner, especially after my solo exhibition there in 2016,” she says. “Another favourite is my painting of the ketch Tribal Warrior at Blackwattle Bay. It captures the local waterfront and tells an incredible story.” For those who want to see her work in the flesh, she notes, “One of my Urban Tree series is on display at the Gosford Regional Gallery until October 2024.”
Bringing Suzy’s Art Home
Want a slice of Suzy’s Balmain in your home? You can check out all of the latest pieces on Suzy’s Instagram and Website - details below. She also has a number of works displayed at galleries across Sydney, details here can also be found on the website. To follow along or make an inquiry, head to @suzykingartist or visit suzyking.com.au.
To follow see Suzy’s latest works or make a purchase enquiry head to: www.suzyking.com.au
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