Suzy Carroll
Suzy Carroll: Cold Wax and Oil
Suzy was raised in Washington State by parents who were mountaineers and sailors. As an only child, nature became her constant companion. Decades later, the hours she spent mesmerized by water splashing off the sailboat, clouds drifting overhead, and horizon-gazing continue to shape the imagery and essence of her artwork.
A significant part of Suzy’s creative journey is rooted in her relationship with her late mother—an artist, and a narcissist. Like many children of narcissistic parents, she became an over-achiever and people-pleaser with a deep fear of criticism. Her creative side was buried early, and for many years, she followed the more culturally excepted path of business and leadership.
In 2022, Suzy earned her ICF-certified Jungian Life Coach credential. The process cracked something open and began healing a lifelong fear of criticism. Long-buried creativity came rushing forward.
By early 2023, Suzy closed her coaching business and took a leap of faith—committing fully to painting every day. No longer driven by perfectionism (well, not as much), she dove headfirst into cold wax painting—a luminous and layered medium that thrives on unpredictability and letting go.
Soon after, she sold her first painting and fully embraced her identity as an artist. She’s never done anything that feels so deeply aligned.
Suzy’s creative process is guided by five personal principles:
Create without attachment.
Create from joy.
Embrace Wabi-Sabi (imperfection).
Step away the moment it feels like “work.”
Go with the flow.
Whether on canvas or in life, Suzy welcomes the unknown—trusting what emerges while embracing a medium that shines when control is released.
Website: suzycarroll.com
Instagram: @suzycarroll