Donor Story
"Suzan Major was a pioneering mosaic artist known and remembered for her beautiful, whimsical creations. She was a founding member of the Society of American Mosaic Artists and an energetic contributor at both the local and national levels.
Born in Calgary on May 5, 1960 to Jack and Hélène Major, Suzan attended the College of the Atlantic In Wales on scholarship at the age of 15, graduating with her International Baccalaureate. She then enrolled at Queens University in Kingston, Ontario, graduating in 1983, then as the Gold medalist in Art History. She obtained her Master's degree from New York University in 1986, then taught at the Alberta College of Art in Calgary for two years before accepting a fellowship award from Stanford University, where she earned her PhD in Art History.
Suzan was the published author of Found Art Mosaics, a look at the history and a teaching guide on mosaics. In November 1993, the prestigious The Burlington Magazine also published her scholarly researched article identifying the legitimate artist of a famous medieval fresco, contrary to the then popular belief. Suzan was the founder and sole proprietor of her studio Major Mosaics, devoted both to teaching the art of mosaics and to the creation of them. Of her work, one commentator wrote "Well known for more is more in the mosaic world, her creations burst from this surface like fireworks".
Suzan has been described by all who knew her as brilliant and loving with a warm sense of humour. She loved to travel and spent significant time in France, Italy, India, Mexico, Peru and Chile as a student, aid worker, artist, and occasionally as a tourist. In 1990, Suzan married Ken Germond, and together they raised two children, Alex and Mimi, both of Austin, Texas. Donated pieces of her work hang in Lakeway Elementary School, Hudson Bend Middle School and Dripping Springs High School.”
~ Jack and Hélène Major
Fund Description
Established in October 2019 by Jack and Hélène Major in memory of their daughter Suzan Major, BA (Hons.) 1983. Awarded on the basis of academic excellence to students graduating with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree with an academic plan in Art History.
