Q&A with Susan Olmetti: artist/philanthropist

Susan Olmetti Self-Portrait. Sunglasses by Mercura Sunglasses NYC. Photo by Greg Kitchen.

Susan Olmetti is a force to be reckoned with. She is not only a notable artist, but also a tireless advocate for individuals with bi-polar disorder, HIV and AIDS, and the LGBT community. Olmetti commutes back-and-forth between Chicago and New York, where she resides at the infamous Chelsea Hotel. Her repertoire includes painting, sculpting, clothing, and even poetry. Olmetti's paintings are vibrant and dynamic, but it's her nude self-portrait photographs that are her signature works.

What influences your art?

Overcoming adversity that comes my way is a big influence. I was diagnosed at fifteen with bi-polar disorder and was told that I would be limited in what I could accomplish in life. Which leads to the the most powerful influence in my work, Stanley Bard, the long-time manager of the Chelsea Hotel. He is the only one who ever believed in my art and foresaw that I would succeed. Bard continues to support me in all my endeavors. He calms me and I love him dearly.

What is your favorite medium to work in and what are you saying in your art?

Oils, I love the smell of them. It's like a breath of fresh air. I have displayed a body of work in oils that have given a strong approach to abstract painting and its relation to how forms emerge through pigments and transparency. In my art, I try to share the aftermath of my internal dreams with my viewers to feel in their hearts the positive transformation of negative thoughts.

Why do you photograph yourself in the nude?

Well this a tough one. I am exposing my inner-self to my viewers and the only way I can put this into words is, passion. It's a feeling you have never felt before. It's how I feel free.

How has bi-polar disorder affected your work?

My bi-polar disorder is my best friend. We work hand-in-hand together. Without it, I could not exist, that and my art.

What is the current advocacy project you are working on?

I'm hosting a fundraiser event for Chicago House, an organization that supports those living with HIV and AIDS. The event is called Susan Olmetti @ Sir Spa and it's during Andersonville's Art and Home Weekend. At the fundraiser, my work will be exhibited and sold, and a portion of the proceeds will go to Chicago House. The event is at Sir Spa, October 2, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.