“This Show Rocks” is one painter’s exploration of nature’s foundational building blocks.

Human civilization was built of stone. The ancient wonders of the world, the castles of Europe and the bridges that connect us, rely on the strength of stone, but according to artist Susanne Crane, rocks are most awe-inspiring when found in their natural landscape.

“I have been obsessed with rocks since I was a child, fascinated to learn the names of the stones I held in my hands. Later, I worked with semi-precious stones in jewelry settings and later still, with bricks and mortar, tile and mosaic. I also like to hike and climb and feel a very close bond with the bluffs and coulees of my childhood”, she said.

Susanne’s paintings are vast and dream-like and take you on a heartfelt journey to distant places. She has been painting for over 30 years, showing extensively in the mid-west and also leads art enrichment programs in Minneapolis and Albert Lea.

Special features in this show include – rock gardens and cairns, some beautiful stone jewelry pieces and references to ancient wonders (some of them from our National Parks!) And according to Susanne, “some of my frames were made locally by Layne Cabinetry. They’re beautiful. They fit perfectly to the artwork.”

What’s next? – Susanne is currently working on a piece for a Smithsonian sponsored exhibition and getting ready for her MacNider show. She’s also looking forward to the Pop-Up Art event, right here in Albert Lea, at the FCAI, the first week in November.

About the poster – She said, “I don’t really play the guitar. It was play on the word “Rocks” to amuse my friends. We thought it would be fun to do a vintage looking take on a Rolling Stones magazine cover with me as a Janis Joplin-esque rock star. I’ve gotten quite a few calls about this poster art and possibly a few gigs. Maybe I’ll take up the guitar yet. They say it’s never too late.”