When do you usually come to town?
We have spent weekends and summers in Washington for years. We live on the Upper West Side and head right up on Fridays whenever possible, throughout the year. We adore waking up on Saturday mornings with the whole weekend before us, enjoying country life. The sunrises at our home are just astonishing. Washington is so picturesque and breathtaking; we immediately wind down from life in the city.
How do you kids feel about living in Washington?
They absolutely love it! They have been coming to Washington since they were born and they want to come up as often has they can. At times, living in a city can feel chaotic and often cramped and crowded. There really isn’t a tranquil place where kids can roam, stretch out, and be free. Here in Washington, my kids have been able to feel free and spend time outdoors with their many friends. They love exploring the countryside and getting outdoors to enjoy Washington’s beautiful natural surroundings. We even have a garden where we grow string beans, tomatoes, zucchini, and herbs. Nothing beats growing and eating your own vegetables. During the summers growing up, my kids also loved to play tennis and spend plenty of time on Lake Waramaug.
What are your favorite things to do while you are in town?
I really enjoy starting the weekend at the farmers market at Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens. Many area farms are present and they offer such amazing produce. I am a part of the Waldingfield Farm’s CSA and I get all of my vegetables from them. I just love being able to bring home fresh, local food to cook great wholesome meals. I also have a weak spot for the Bees Knees Ice Pops stand at the farmers market.
My family and I like to boat and waterski on Lake Waramaug from May to October. Being on the water is a family passion. We love to hike up to the Pinnacle with its spectacular views of Lake Waramaug and the surrounding countryside. Also, every Sunday, my daughter and I take a yoga class at ah Yoga.
Are you involved with any organizations in Washington?
I am a member of the Washington Arts Association (WAA). One of the great things about Washington is that the town is just bursting with art and culture. There are several fantastic galleries in town and the art shows are just phenomenal. It’s funny how a small town in Connecticut could be such a cultural hub and attract such great artistic talent.
ASAP! is another organization that I am involved with. I just love their mission and what they have done to foster children’s creativity and supplement arts education. ASAP! has some of the best fine art programs and year after year my kids have participated in summer camp until they aged out.
What do you think makes Washington special?
Washington truly offers the best of both worlds. You get the tranquility and the community-oriented vibe of a small town, with a rich and vibrant cultural scene. Washington has become a very popular destination for many summer residents like myself. However, the town never feels crowded and the lifestyle here has always been relaxed and peaceful. It has been a great place to raise my family.
Where can we find you next?
I currently have a solo exhibit at the New York Public Library, St. Agnes Branch throughout the month of February. Also, I will be curating an international art show in May in NYC as a fund-raiser. This is a very exciting project for me, as I will be collecting collages from artists around the world and installing them in an outdoor setting. (@the_collage_garden) I’m also excited to have a solo show at the Stairwell Gallery at the Gunn Memorial Library in July of 2019.
To learn more about Susan, her artwork, and upcoming shows check out her Instagram page and her website.
“Our summer home in Washington has given us the perfect balance between the hustle and bustle of the city and the tranquility and freedom of country life.”
