Susan Kadish, a renowned sculptor and ceramic artist, passed away at 83, leaving behind a legacy of innovative art that blended ancient traditions with contemporary experimentation. Her unique style, marked by the use of liquid silver and iridescent droplets, transformed traditional subjects like the Buddha into something uniquely her own. But what makes her story truly fascinating is not just her artistic genius, but also the way she wove art into every aspect of her life, from her elaborate gardens and whimsical hats to her family-centric legacy. In this article, I'll delve into the life and work of Susan Kadish, exploring how her passion for art extended beyond the studio and into the very fabric of her existence, and how her creative impulse became a guiding light for her family and the community around her.
A Creative Spirit
Born into a family of fashion designers, Susan Kadish developed an artist's eye at an early age. Her journey into sculpture began at the Fashion Institute of Technology, but it was her time in Italy and New York training in alabaster and marble that truly shaped her style. The petite artist's ability to tackle massive pieces of stone was remarkable, and it was this determination and creativity that later led her to experiment with clay, drawing on Japanese and Korean ceramics and incorporating metal, horsehair, beads, leather, and rope into her pieces. Her patented process using liquid silver, which left thousands of iridescent droplets across her ceramic surfaces, is a testament to her innovative spirit.
What makes her story particularly fascinating is how her creative impulse extended beyond the studio. Kadish's elaborate gardens, whimsical hats, and colorful table settings were all testaments to her artistic instinct. Even when she became unable to throw clay, she continued to paint pots until just two months before her death, proving that her passion for art was truly unyielding.
A Family-Centric Legacy
Susan Kadish's life was deeply intertwined with her family, and her art was a reflection of this. Her husband, Lawrence Kadish, was her muse, inspiring poems and love songs over the course of their 65-year marriage. Their son, Charles Kadish, described his mother as his father's 'guiding light', and it's clear that family was at the heart of her life. Their Old Westbury home was a testament to this, with Kadish's sculptures and a carefully curated art collection adorning the space.
However, what many people don't realize is that while Kadish was an extraordinary artist, her real passion was for her family. Her artwork is a lasting reminder of her creativity, but her legacy of love will live forever. Her sons, Howard and William, and her grandchildren are a testament to the impact she had on her family, and her support for educational initiatives at the Museum of American Armor in Old Bethpage shows her commitment to the community.
A Lasting Impact
Susan Kadish's impact extends beyond her art and family. Her attention to the museum's volunteers and educational mission, as well as her generosity and care, made her a beloved figure in the community. Her funeral services, attended by friends, family, and colleagues, were a testament to the respect and admiration she commanded. Her legacy will live on through her art, her family, and the community she touched.
In conclusion, Susan Kadish's life and work are a testament to the power of creativity and the impact it can have on the world. Her unique style, her family-centric legacy, and her commitment to the community make her a true inspiration. As we reflect on her life, we are reminded of the importance of following our passions and the lasting impact we can have on the world around us.
