We were lucky to catch up with Suzanne Stewart recently and have shared our conversation below.
Suzanne, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.
As an artist who loves experimenting with new techniques and painting on various surfaces, taking risks is a crucial part of my creative journey. Last year, I applied for a grant to paint my largest mural yet, which was a significant step towards achieving my goal of painting murals. Although it was intimidating to apply for a grant, I decided to go for it because I wanted to beautify my Chicago neighborhood and broaden my sources of income as a full-time artist. Despite my initial fears of not being experienced enough or messing up the mural, I persevered and completed the application. I had supportive friends and family who encouraged me throughout the process. While I was working on the application, my brother and sister-in-law hired me to paint a mural on their residence in Florida, which boosted my confidence and helped me process the stress of dealing with my mom’s hospitalization.
Eventually, I received the grant and designed a tropical botanical mural called “Passionate Healing” that now graces the neighborhood. Even though I was grieving the recent loss of both my parents when it was time to paint the mural, it was still a gift to pour my emotions into creating something beautiful for the community. It reminded me of the importance of taking chances and supporting others who pursue new opportunities. Thanks to the Northcenter Chamber of Commerce for awarding me, the mural continues to brighten up the area and bring joy to the community.
Suzanne, 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?
People are often surprised I have a degree in 3D Animation because they know me as a painter. When my now two adult kids were young I set aside my career to focus on their upbringing. I had always truly preferred creating with my hands and continued painting and drawing. I spent many years making art with a team of artists at a church organization where I honed my skills and had the opportunity to collaborate on incredible installations. I learned so much there yet was missing connecting with the greater art community and needed an income. In 2019 I decided to start a business selling art, creating a kids art club, taking commissions, and building a website. In summer of 2020 I was invited to join a group painting a street mural. It was there I met and connected with some very welcoming local working artists, which has opened many opportunities and friendships. Currently I work full time as an artist from my studio and also part time as an art teacher. My art is infused with my love of nature and is often close up acrylic paintings of botanicals including succulents and tropical plants. The young teen punk side of me loves to let loose and paint textured abstracts as well. These can be found on canvas, murals, prints, and in art shows. I take commissions and enjoy creating beauty to uplift spaces and homes. Collaborating is still an important part of my journey and has grown my skills as I brainstorm and create alongside other artists. I’m proud to be adding my own artistic voice to the world and have loads of gratitude for friends and family who support me along the way. It’s a gift to return that to my students as I teach them and make space for their artistic expression too.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
In the last year I had amazing business opportunities and experiences while at the same time I had an incredible amount of loss in my personal life. I became an empty nester(bittersweet), ended a 25 year marriage, both of my parents passed away within 4 days of each other, and the heartache was/is big. Some days my resilience looked like just getting up to eat, other days it was pushing after my dreams and looking forward to what good things were ahead. Easing up on my business goals to take some time for healing is something I’ve had to learn to give myself room for. Some markets, shows, and sales weren’t as profitable as hoped and I had to make the hard decision to not renew my studio lease for 2023. Thankfully, there was extra space at home to create a beautiful studio. It’s the first time in my life I’ve had to support myself and it’s not easy but I am embracing the adventure of being an entrepreneur as I navigate through grief, goals, and good times. Many wonderful people have supported me in various ways. Leaning on them, faith, and keeping a sense of humor like my mom is part of my practice in resilience. Excitedly, the studio has paintings and collabs in the works, some workshops are scheduled, and there are more murals coming!
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
Using art as expression allows me the chance to process life and share my perspective. Bringing light, beauty, and connection to others through my own artwork while also encouraging people to create are important goals for my creative journey. As I continue to grow, I make art, teach, and work together with artists. This builds beautiful relationships and enhances the community. 
Contact Info:
- Website: suzannestewartart.com
- Instagram: @suzannestewartart
Image Credits
Personal photo by Colleen Davick