Susan Palys, an artist living in Angola, is pictured at her first exhibition in Buffalo.

Susan Palys, an artist living in Angola, has reached a major milepost on her artistic journey. The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens is housing Sue’s first solo exhibition, “Blooming Colors,” now through June 18 in its Archangel Gallery. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The admission cost includes access to the entire Garden Complex, a beautiful and fascinating attraction.

Sue’s exhibition includes 30 of her paintings particularly fitting for this venue. One of her favorite subjects is nature, especially flowers and plants. The selected paintings are different sizes, and she uses acrylic, watercolor, watercolor and ink, and mixed media to execute her visions. Some paintings are realistic while others are more abstract. Her use of color and design is always interesting and often breathtaking.

Sue began painting as a child. She remembers that she was about 8 years old when her aunt gifted her with a set of artists’ supplies from Ulbrich’s, at the time a noted bookstore and stationery store in Buffalo. This aunt was also her Godmother and an illustrator who showed her a few things about art.

Sue continued to study art in high school and later entered SUC at Buffalo, noted for training art educators. After finishing her degree, she taught art at area Catholic schools and in adult education classes. She worked in the public sector for years but continued to exercise her artistic skills.

“Painting is something I need to do,” she said. “I like trying different approaches to art. I am still learning.”

After retirement, Sue decided to pursue art full time. She currently participates in several Western New York art organizations. She has achieved Juried Artist status in the Arts and Craftsmen Guild of the historic Roycroft Campus in East Aurora; Exhibiting Member status in the Buffalo Society of Artists and Signature Member Status in the Niagara Frontier. She has received recognition in several art shows. Sue’s website is www.ArtbySusanPalys.com. She also has a limited number of works displayed at https://fineartamerica.com. These works are available as prints and other items such as stationery, tote bags, and T shirts. Simply search Susan Palys at the website. The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens website is www.buffalogardens.com. Their telephone number is 716-827-1584.