Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Susan Brown awarded honorary Doctorate of Arts
Susan, who lives in Huddersfield and graduated from Leeds Metropolitan's predecessor, Leeds Polytechnic with a degree BA Hons Three Dimensional Design/ Interior Architecture in 1979, has had a long-standing career in interior design and contemporary painting.
Speaking about her career she said that as an artist she is inspired by "life in general" and the cities she visits, adding that to receive an honorary award was a "magical" experience.
"To be awarded an honorary doctorate is absolutely wonderful," she commented, "If I could give graduates any advice it would be just be yourself and follow your own imagination."
A painter who predominantly uses watercolour and acrylic, Susan has worked on many collections and commissions, with galleries and at art fairs. Her work is held in numerous galleries and in public and private collections ranging from The Royal Bank of Canada to HBOS, The National Trust and Yorkshire Water.
Her watercolour style is unique and innovative. She handles her subjects in a spontaneous manner, creating bold lively images and focuses on a range of architectural, theatrical and musical subjects in her paintings as well as still life and landscape.
A recipient of arts prizes for her paintings, Susan's awards include: The Laing Art Competition; the Hunting Art Prize - regional winner; Discerning Eye - the Penrose Purchase Prize; and the Singer and Friedlander Sunday Times Watercolour Competition where she was a finalist.
She has exhibited in group exhibitions including the Royal Academy - Summer Exhibition, the Royal Scottish Academy, The Royal Watercolour Society and the New English Arts Club. In 1994 she was Artist in Residence at the York Early Music Festival.
Others receiving honorary degrees from Leeds Metropolitan include comedy writer and performer Barry Cryer OBE; Leeds businessman and charity activist, Edward Ziff and Olympic triathlon coach Malcolm Brown MBE.
Leeds Metropolitan University Vice Chancellor, Professor Susan Price, said: "We are delighted to recognise such a wide variety of individuals who have made a significant contribution to their field. This year's awards are particularly varied, with inspiring people from a range of backgrounds including business, arts, law, sport and the entertainment industry. We are very much looking forward to welcoming them to our Headingley Campus to celebrate with us as we recognise the achievements of our staff and graduating students."