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!

I am a child of the 1960's and 70's, a time when America was fighting for civil rights and an end to the Vietnam war. So it has been horrifying to watch the US slide backwards, reviving the racism, sexism, 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)

As an artist I feel a duty to meet the moment and bear witness. The art I make is a visual representation of one woman's journey to make sense of an increasingly crazy world. I hope that when you, dear viewer, look at my work that you will find something in it that helps you with your own struggles. That is my wish.

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

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.