About

From the moment I could hold a pencil, art has been my constant companion. My earliest memories are of sketching horses and giraffes on the walls of my childhood home in the Midwest—much to my parents’ dismay. I was captivated by my father’s solitary painting of a white dove, a piece that felt magical to me. I promised myself that one day, I would create art that carried that same sense of wonder.

Growing up in Illinois, my creativity caught the attention of classmates in my small Midwest town, who eagerly sought my drawings, often debating over who would get the next one. Despite my college art instructor encouraging me to pursue a career as an artist or even an art teacher, life had other plans. I chose to build a family and a home in the Fox Valley region, placing my artistic ambitions on hold.

After my youngest child started school, I pursued a degree in CAD mechanical drawing, leading to a 30-year career in architectural design and interior planning. My work spanned the Chicagoland area, bringing creativity and structure to countless homes and businesses. During this time, I set aside the idea of creating art, believing the myth that artists couldn’t thrive professionally.

It wasn’t until retirement approached that art called to me again—this time with an undeniable pull. Encouraged by friends and inspired by the natural beauty of Illinois, I returned to painting, enrolling in online courses and studying under renowned artists like Jed Dorsey, Jim Musil, Nancy Medina, Mike Svob, and Ali Kay.

Now, as the founder of Susie’s Studio, Fine Art, I focus on creating nature-inspired and landscape paintings that reflect the charm of the Fox Valley region and the greater Midwest. My paintings celebrate the quiet beauty of Illinois’ rolling fields, serene lakes, and lush greenery, capturing scenes that resonate deeply with my clients. Whether it’s a tranquil landscape or a holiday-themed piece, my goal is to create artwork that transforms homes into sanctuaries of beauty and elegance.

Art isn’t just something I create—it’s a reflection of the journey that brought me here. Every brushstroke tells a story of resilience, discovery, and the pursuit of joy. My hope is that my paintings find a place in homes throughout Fox Valley, Chicagoland, and beyond, where they can bring as much warmth and meaning as they’ve brought to me.

Welcome to Susie’s Studio, Fine Art, where timeless landscapes and heartfelt expressions come to life.