About the Artist

“I believe art is a part of my everyday life. When I am not painting, I am still looking, composing, and observing. On some level, this all translates back into my paintings.”

From an early age, Susan Kuznitsky possessed the eye and heart of the artist. Finishing high school early, her passion led her to study at the American Academy of Art in Chicago, and later inspired her formal, classical training in Woodstock, New York. Susan later painted at the Palette and Chisel Academy, working with an inspiring group of painters in an informal setting. She remarks that some of her best training came from her time as a freelance portrait artist, creating quick sketches from real life, from newborns to grandmothers, and even dogs.

For a number of years, Susan lived in her native Chicago, where she received numerous awards, including the award for “best portrait” from the Pastel Society of America. Major art magazines have featured her work, including Artist and American Artist. Susan moved to Portland, Oregon in the early 1990s, where the natural beauty of the Northwest offered her new colors and vibrant landscapes to paint.

Susan’s love of painting has always compelled her to share her gifts with others. From the beginning, teaching has been a part of her life as an artist. Susan remarks that “teaching allows me to keep my eye fresh. Together we share inspiration.” She currently teaches art in her private studio in Portland.

Susan continues to employ her talents in the world of portrait painting. As much as she enjoys the challenge of capturing her subject’s features, translating her subject’s character and personality offers an equal reward. According to Susan, the most satisfying element of portrait painting is the creation of a family treasure. “It is deeply satisfying to create a family heirloom that I know will outlive us all.”

Susan lives in Portland with her husband and two children. She continues to accept a limited number of commissions each year.