Russell, Sunny

Raised in California, Sunny’s exposure to art and aesthetics was founded early by parents who were both artists and writers.  Their philosophical and free-thinking approach to life encouraged her to find creative inspiration from the environment, her emotions, and anything she could imagine.  As a child, Sunny’s artistic inclinations became apparent when she made greeting cards from scraps of paper. She built dollhouses and furniture from colorful cardboard--along with paper dolls lucky to have “designer” wardrobes cut from magazine pages. “I really liked cutting paper and ran with scissors!” 

In her early adult years, Sunny experienced an adventurous life.  She traveled and lived in several countries which expanded her perspective and appreciation of other cultural artforms.  “I see now--decades later--how those experiences translate into my artwork.” 

Time goes on and Life Happens (employment, marriage/divorce, raising a son), and for many years Sunny, while not active in creating artwork, was involved in the artworld. While living in Bellingham, WA, she met Jody Bergsma, and they quickly became close friends.  Jody’s success as an internationally renowned watercolorist continued to grow so significantly that she required additional staff at Bergsma Gallery and felt that Sunny’s background would serve well as Public Relations Director.  “My position required a fair amount of travel--meeting with companies interested in licensing Jody’s products and setting up booths and displays at major art shows. Looking back, I appreciate what an educational experience it was!  Years of friendship and working with this amazing, gifted artist had a huge impact on how I would market and merchandise my artwork years later.”  

Sunny considers her greatest artistic influence—and mentor—was Eleanor Smith, an award-winning collage and watercolor artist.  Eleanor’s avant-garde approach to collage made the most significant impact to the direction Sunny’s art would take.  Upon her death in 1995, Sunny was beneficiary to Eleanor’s vast collection of handmade imported papers—rare and expensive in today’s market.  And so began Sunny’s artistic journey into the exciting world of collage—cutting, tearing, manipulating papers to create unique artwork.  “The gift of those papers made ALL the difference for which I will always be grateful!” 

Sunny’s unique style and artistic evolution has earned many awards at juried shows along with Best of Show ribbons.  “I’ll never stop exploring new avenues of inspiration for subject matter and improving my technique.  It’s therapy for me and my well-being depends on it.  When I’m creating a new piece, I am “one” with it and feel happy and balanced.” 

Sunny Russell lives in Lake Havasu City, AZ with her husband, Jim, and their little dog, Rocket.  They travel to their home on Lake Chapala, Jalisco, MX during summer where Sunny has a studio.