Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Susan Wellington. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Susan, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

Growing up, I was always surrounded by beauty—my mother found ways to create art in everything she did. But it was a 5th-grade assignment that really lit the spark for me. I went to a small country school with no formal art program or teacher, and that year my class was tasked with painting a small mural for history. I naturally took the lead in my group, and when the administration came to see our work, mine stood out enough for the principal to comment on my talent. That moment stuck with me, and looking back, I think it was when I first realized I wanted to be an artist.

Life had other plans for a while, and it wasn’t until I lost my mother to early-onset Alzheimer’s that I truly felt the urgency to follow that dream. Her passing made me see we can’t postpone what feeds our souls. From then on, I dedicated myself fully to the journey—learning through books, videos, classes, and finding mentors who could challenge and guide me as I grew as an artist.

Susan, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

The quiet landscapes of my native Mississippi, along with places I have encountered in my travels, continually inspire my work. The natural world offers an endless source of beauty and grace, and I am drawn to capturing the intimate moments that often go unnoticed in the tempo of everyday life.
Working in the varied mediums of oil, watercolor, and pastel, I am especially intrigued with the way that changing light presents continual possibilities for a scene. A shift in light can transform an ordinary landscape into something entirely new, creating mood, atmosphere, and a quiet sense of wonder. These moments invite me to slow down, look a little longer, and appreciate the simplicity and beauty around me.
Through my work, I hope to encourage a renewed appreciation for the glory that surrounds us. I am especially drawn to subjects that convey stillness and quiet reflection. My goal is to share the sense of calm and joy I experience while observing these moments, inviting viewers to pause, reconnect with nature, and reflect on the grace present in the world around us.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

I am currently recovering from a major shoulder injury – and sadly, it’s to my painting side. I’ve not had the use of that arm for over 2 months, and I think it will be another month to 6 weeks before I am able to paint with my dominant hand.

Not being able to paint has been awful, so I decided to try painting with my left hand. I first tried in pastel and was amazed at how well it went. It’s a bit more impressionistic than my normal style, but I am enjoying the looseness very much and will probably incorporate more of that when I am able to paint with my right hand again. I have also been doing some oil painting from my left side and am truly having fun with it!

I have been amazed at how quickly both my bode and brain have adapted. I think the experience will make me a better artist.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

There are several deeply rewarding aspects of being an artist. First, the art Community is filled with some of the most wonderful people I have ever known. They are nurturing, kind, and incredibly encouraging. The lifelong friendships I have formed through art have enriched my life in countless ways.

Second, I truly love connecting with collectors. When a piece of my work touches someone in a visceral way, it reinforces the sense that I am helping others see the beauty in the world that surrounds us.

Finally, being an artist has sharpened the way I observe the world. I notice beauty in simple moments that might otherwise go overlooked: the play of light and shadow, the graceful curve of a bird’s neck, the extraordinary colors woven through an ordinary day. Seeing the world this way continually enriches my life in ways that are difficult to put into words.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.susanwellingtonart.com
• Instagram: susan.wellington.731

Image Credits

All photos are mine