Arthur Sussman

Arthur Sussman (1927-2008) was an American Jewish artist whose family immigrated to New York City before World War I from Eastern Europe. Although ‘observant Jews’, his mother encouraged him artistically and culturally by taking him to visit secular institutions such as the Brooklyn Museum of Art. Sussman explored the spiritual traditions of both Judaism and Christianity as well as other non-western traditions in his artwork. He completed his BFA at Syracuse University. After graduation he worked in NYC for more than 10 years as a designer and illustrator. At the same time he studied painting at the Brooklyn Museum of Art. Much of his personal work was inspired by stories from the Old Testament. Prior to moving with his wife and two daughters to Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1965, Sussman spent four years traveling in Spain, Israel and Mexico. In New Mexico he taught at the University of Albuquerque and the University of New Mexico Community College. His paintings and prints have been collected worldwide by individuals and museums. Significantly, the New Mexico Museum of Fine Arts in Santa Fe has several pieces in their permanent collection as does the Albuquerque Museum of Fine Arts. Important biblical works are also in the permanent collection of the Oklahoma City Art Center and the Jewish Museum in New York City. www.arthursussmangallery.com