Julio Susana (Dominican Republic, B. 1937) “La Vandera Oleo”. Signed and dated (2011) lower left, also signed, titled and sized verso. Oil/Canvas. Size: 50 x 36 in.
Julio Susana stands as one of the Dominican Republic’s most prominent artists. An entire wing in the Museum of the Dominican Man in Santo Domingo is dedicated to his work. Susana’s paintings vividly manifest a field of reality integrated with the kingdom of magic. In his canvases, one sees the symbolism of Diego Rivera and Frida Khalo.
Internationally acclaimed, Susana’s monumental and visionary work exudes an essential vitality that radiates life. The symbolic and the real coexist, bringing an allegorical quality to his chosen cast of characters. Timeless and dreamlike, Susana’s prophetic art creates an indelible impression upon the viewer. Uniquely honored with an award from the White House for remarkable artistic achievements, Susana’s work continues to garner thunderous acclaim and accolades.
Awards & Appointments Received:
2007 – The Museum of the Dominican Man, Santo Domingo, DR names one wings: Temporal Julio Susana
2000 – Selected work “Proteccion de vida’ included in the Banco Popular Dominicana art collection.
1996 – Proclamation “500th Anniversary-Dominican Festival” honors Susana and 5 Others for artistic achievements
1995 – White House commendation from President Bill Clinton for artistic achievements Dec 13, 1985.
1985 – Awarded 40th Anniversary Peace Medal by the United Nations in New York, NY. Dec 17, 1985.
1984 – Performs original songs at the United Nations
1977 – Opens Academy at Museum of Natural History in New York City. Appointed Head Professor of Arts
1975 – Award for painting XIII Biennial of Visual Art. Dominican Republic
1965 – Gov’t Appointment as Director of School of Fine Arts at Academia de Bellas Artes, La Vega Real.
1963 – Award for sculpture XI Biennial of Visual Art. Dominican Republic
1963 – Appointed Professor at Academia de Bellas Artes in San Francisco de Macoris.
1959 – Awarded Painter of the Year -11th Biennial Exhibition, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
1955 – Scholarship to Spain’s Instituto de Cultura Hispánica de Madrid. Studies under master artist Vella Zanetti.