Meet Artists Shay Culligan and Frank Susi, Figuratively Peaking, First Friday, April 4, 2025, 6-9pm
by Joan Clifford, Executive Director
Meet Artists Shay Culligan and Frank Susi, Figuratively Peaking, First Friday, April 4, 6-9pm
The next First Friday reception, April 4th, 6-9pm, at the Milton Art Center features the art of Shay Culligan and Frank Susi, Figuratively Peaking, Representational Art. Music will be Rhythm & Blooms, a night of live R&B Music, Art and Fun. First Fridays are free, family friendly, with refreshments, open to all.
Shay Culligan
Shay Culligan originates from Ireland and immigrated to Massachusetts in the 90’s. He graduated from MassArt in Boston and lives locally with his wife, Marina. Shay specializes in oil on canvas, but has also worked in other media: acrylics, photography, serigraphy, and sculpture.
Q. You’ve expressed a preference for representational art over abstraction. What is it about figurative work that speaks to you?
“I developed early as an illustrator, so I always thought that pure abstraction is a bit of a bluff.”
Q. You often depict statues in your paintings. What draws you to them as subjects? Do you see them as symbols, historical artifacts, or something else?
“With classical statues the quality of their composition was established long ago, no setting up is required from me. I respect the craft of sculpture, the practice of which for health reasons was beyond my access.”
Q. Your work has a strong graphic quality- how do you balance precision with emotional expression in your figures?
“Once I get the technical aspects right, the emotional side of things usually falls into place.”
Q. You’ve been vocal in your critique of the visual art world. What do you see as its biggest problems today?
“There’s so much money at the high end of the art market so art’s gatekeepers are determined to maintain their grip on it. None of it trickles down! They determine the narrative, so they are calling the shots on who breaks through, and it’s by invitation only.”
Q. You often paint your wife. Do you see her as a personal muse or is there a broader artistic or symbolic significance in portraying her?
“Marina is a fashionista; I’ve been doing fashion photo shoots with her for 20 years. She still looks great and she knows how to pose. She interprets a character that many women can identify with”.
Q. What do you hope viewers take away from your work?
“I hope that the viewers come away thinking that this artist has learned his craft, he knows what he is doing, and he certainly is not bluffing.”
Frank Susi
Frank Susi resides in Milton with his wife, Mandy and two daughters, Sonya and Celeste. Frank owns and operates Susi Art in Braintree, providing custom silkscreen printing, graphic design, promotional merchandise, and fine art services. Frank’s art is done in oil and acrylic paint- both brushed and silkscreen printed.
Q. We have known your daughters from their earliest years taking classes at the art center- what do you hope they will take away from watching you pursue both art and entrepreneurship? Do either of them want to be artists or professional ice skaters?
“Work ethic and following passions. Whether it’s professionally or casually, it’s important to practice your passions for your mental well-being. And only with a strong work ethic can you find success professionally or find fulfillment through improving what you are passionate about. It’s too early to tell with my daughters, but I believe art will always play a part in their lives. Both are very expressive. Visually, they enjoy drawing, pottery and have a strong knack for design. Both also enjoy expression through drama and dance.”
Q. If you could create a dream project, what would it be and how would your family be involved?
“Currently, I find very little time to paint due to running a business and having young children. So my dream project will most likely come in retirement. When I can really immerse myself in painting without considering the client or customer’s needs. When I can paint solely for myself which is usually when an artist creates their best work. My family will always be an inspiration and hopefully collaborative partners throughout our lives.”
Q. What advice would you give artists who want to turn their art into a sustainable business?
“Art is a tough business to succeed in. There are a million cheap art and design services out there. Skill and customer service can set you apart from the rest. Also, put the time in, stay versatile and be ready to compromise. Value your ideas, but you must be willing to compromise your vision to satisfy the needs and visions of your customers. Many artists have a difficult time taking instructions from clients who are not artists. This can be very frustrating and difficult at times, but without compromise, maintaining clients and running a successful business would be impossible.”