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Sunday, January 19, 2020

West Orange Arts Council presents "Outlander Inspired"

Outlander Inspired: The Story, The Characters, The Light
by Heidi Sussman

WHEN: January 18, 2020 through February 1, 2020. An Outlander Premiere Party and Artist Reception will take place on Saturday, January 25, 2020 from 5 to 8pm (Snow date 2/1/20). Gallery hours are 90 minutes prior to Luna Stage performances and by appointment.
WHERE
: West Orange Arts Center, 551 Valley Road, West Orange

Barney Rafferty of the Essex Shillelagh Pipes & Drums will kick off the event which includes an Outlander Trivia Contest, Scotch Tasting and light refreshments.

Outlander Inspired is an exhibit by artist/photographer and Outlander fan Heidi Sussman. The work showcases images captured via cell phone and manipulated to create digital illustrations and one-of-a-kind mixed media art. They tell a visual story of the time traveling 20th-century Claire Fraser and her 18th-century Highlander husband Jamie Fraser, main characters from the popular TV drama, Outlander, inspired by author Diana Gabaldon's novels.

Sussman, a West Orange artist and former WOAC Chairwoman, discovered Outlander a little over a year ago and while watching, was inspired to explore the many dimensions of the characters.  In a darkened room she photographed the action with her cell phone and  then altered the images employing several of her signature image transfer, photo encaustic and digital illustration techniques. 

"As a photographer I am intrigued with how the world, real or imaginary, is lit," says Sussman. "Light becomes its own character whether viewing art as a flat, two dimensional piece, or in motion as in TV or film. The lighting in Outlander is truly spectacular."

As a teaching artist Sussman offers workshops in the various processes she uses to create her art. She is on the faculty of the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey in Summit , and has most recently been invited to present three of her innovative arts workshops this summer at Art Makers Denver. Her local art studio is located in Manufacturers Village, in East Orange.

"I was impressed with Heidi's work and with her unusual way of producing it through active and engaged, rather than passive TV viewing," says WOAC chair Patricia Mitrano. "Whether you are an art lover or an Outlander fan, the intent of this exhibit is to appeal to a diverse audience, to demonstrate inventive techniques and to bring new visitors to our community art gallery."

All are encouraged to  join in the festivities of the world of Outlander and of the West Orange Arts Center.

For more information visit www.heidisussman.com and www.woarts.org