Susan M. Olmetti

Artist Statement

I can never imagine, or even expect, any one person to feel the exact same emotion that I feel when I create a painting. The understanding that I am leaning towards is for my viewer to be able to reach into the aftermath of my internal dreams and feel in their heart the positive effect of a negative thought which always leads me to the path I find which brings my soul to rest. My art work is a love that came from God and a faith which is divine, and
in that faith He keeps me sane - his password and his sign.

Susan Marie Olmetti, born April 9, 1973 is a Sicilian American-born abstract painter currently residing in Chicago, Illinois and New York City.

Ms. Olmetti began her career in 1999, inspired from the special character and culture of New York City and the famed Chelsea Hotel where she lived. She credits this special setting for igniting her creativity and personal development as an artist of the abstract.

She has been featured in international newspapers such as Canada's Globe and Mail, magazines such as Today's Chicago Women and is referenced in Davenport's Art Reference & Price Guide.

Her work has been described as having a sophisticated and intricate pop-art feel. Her paintings consist of little people who live in "a world of happiness," reflecting her complicated struggle with bi-polar disorder and the social and economic obstacles of having an eight grade education. Her art became a healing tool.

"I'm a fighter and I'm very proud of being self-taught," Olmetti is often quoted as saying. She is outspoken and speaks publicly to raise awareness for children and adults with bi-polar disorder.

In 2005, Olmetti created a lasting tribute in memory of her father, Joseph Michael Olmetti, by setting up the Joseph Michael Olmetti Memorial Fund for lung cancer research at the Rush University Medical Center. She is pleased that her art is used to fund possible solutions for lung cancer research.

Her most recent showing was at the Judy A. Saslow Gallery in Chicago in late 2007.

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