Susan Mathews / Stillwater Studio, Stillwater, NY

Susan Mathews’ early influences include the Cat’s Paw logo and late 1950s black-and-white television commercials, including the Upside-Down Bread spot and the anti-litter campaigns aired on Chicago stations. “You can ship it off to the moon; you can mail it to your friend; you can sweep it under the rug; but please don’t litter.”

These influences can be seen in the Stillwater Studio logo and also in Susan’s stewardship. The shoe repair shop communicated comfort and “fix it, don’t throw it away” with the graphic and easily-read Cat’s Paw logo. The Upside-Down Bread ads were creative, clever, and minimal. The anti-litter campaigns were funny, minimal, and communicated a need for responsibility toward the environment.

Another early influence was the Gary Public Library, where Susan worked her way through all the illustrated children’s books (Curious George a favorite), then had to start on the text-only books. Five older sisters brought home higher-level books which challenged and stimulated.

Susan’s first volunteer work was in elementary school, organizing the school library during the summer. Her first job was as a freshman, running off the church bulletin and counting the Sunday collection to earn high school tuition. At college, she worked in the print shop, and transitioned from a math major, to English, and finally to fine art.

Although it never seemed clear until she got there, publishing was a natural destination. After nine years with a textbook publisher, and influenced by freelancers she came to know on the job, Susan chose freelance book design and production.

You can see more work, quotes from happy clients, background, and services offered at: www.stillwater-studio.com