In a world where artistic expression often follows traditional paths, Sue Kreitzman's story stands out as a vibrant and unconventional journey. This 85-year-old, with a background in teaching and culinary arts, has transformed her life into a living, breathing art installation. What makes her narrative particularly fascinating is the unexpected twist it took at the age of 58, when a simple mermaid drawing ignited an obsession with drawing and a unique artistic vision.
A Life Transformed by Art
Kreitzman's Mile End home is a testament to her creative spirit. Every inch of space is adorned with her artwork, from colorful walls to tables and corridors. It's as if she has created her own personal museum, a place where she not only lives but also finds inspiration and comfort. The fact that she has a housekeeper and a curator, Jaime Freestone, speaks to the magnitude of her artistic output and the need to maintain this unique environment.
Freestone, who initially reached out to Kreitzman for mentorship, has become an integral part of her artistic world. The curator's role goes beyond organizing displays; it involves maintaining a safe and nurturing space for Kreitzman and her visitors, especially those from the LGBT community seeking guidance and support.
The Artist's Unique Vision
One of Kreitzman's signature creations is the neck shrine, a personalized sculpture worn around the neck. She has crafted hundreds of these, each with a unique meaning and story. The process of creating these shrines involves a deep personal connection, as Kreitzman encourages the wearer to incorporate objects that hold significance. In my own experience of crafting a neck shrine under her guidance, I was struck by the thoughtfulness and symbolism behind each element, from the ethically sourced Masai beaded collar to the miniature microphones representing my broadcasting career.
Kreitzman's artistic practice is deeply personal and often involves swapping pieces with friends rather than selling her work. This approach ensures that her creations remain intertwined with the lives and stories of those close to her. She finds safety and comfort in this intermingling of her art with the gifts and tokens from others, creating a rich tapestry of meaning and connection.
A World of Color and Imagination
The Egyptian busts and doll heads that adorn her home are not mere decorations; they are, in Kreitzman's words, "talking heads" with their own animus and souls. This belief in the animistic qualities of her art objects adds a layer of mysticism to her creative world. The "Museum Shed" in her backyard, with its sign reading "drama queen," further emphasizes her playful and imaginative approach to life and art.
Kreitzman's influence extends beyond her own artistic endeavors. She has become a mentor and inspiration to artists like Elizabeth Joseph and Anne-Sophie Cochevelou, offering them a space to thrive and believe in themselves. Cochevelou's words capture the transformative power of Kreitzman's mentorship: "Sometimes if I'm feeling a bit low, a little bit uninspired, I come here. I get all the creative energy, and when I leave, I feel all pumped up and refreshed, ready to make art."
A Life Lived in Color
Reflecting on her lifelong love of color, Kreitzman recalls the reaction of her mother when she first painted her rental apartment in the hues she desired. Her mother's initial skepticism, "You'll grow out of it," is a testament to the unconventional nature of Kreitzman's artistic expression. However, as she delightedly points out, at 85, she has not only embraced her unique style but has made it an integral part of her identity.
In conclusion, Sue Kreitzman's story is a celebration of individuality, creativity, and the power of art to transform lives. Her Mile End home is not just an art installation; it's a living, breathing testament to the beauty of embracing one's true self and following a path less traveled. As we explore her world, we are reminded that art, like life, is a journey of self-discovery and expression, and sometimes the most extraordinary stories emerge from the most unexpected beginnings.
