Conversations with Sue Betanzos

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sue Betanzos.

Hi Sue, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
My techniques most often take the form of reverse glass paintings, traditional paintings, and mosaics, sometimes combined with digital illustrations. I transform my artwork into printed media such as cards, notecards, and more, taking care to retain the unique characteristics of hand-made work. My preferred tools are clear glass, paints, brushes, graphite, stained glass, and procreate and affinity photo for editing. My inspiration comes from the flora and fauna I find in beautiful mountains, magical woodlands, deserts, starry nights, and favorite quotes in literature. I like to describe my signature style as ‘contemporary reflections of nature.’ My paintings and mosaics are usually glass, combining traditional flora and fauna with a contemporary style of backgrounds. I love learning, taking on new skills and materials, and honing them to the best of my ability. Studying plants and animals to understand and accurately paint them enriches my life and brings me great joy. I approach the technical aspects of my profession with equal pleasure, composing my paintings into arrangements that highlight the subject. My lifestyle approach to my work is a holistic mindset of mind and body. Daily yoga and nature walk to keep my mind open to possibilities. My best ideas arrive on my daily walks, at sunset or sunrise. Delicate sunrises & exquisite sunsets – it never gets old. My portfolio includes pieces in both pure white backgrounds and colorful. By default color palette tends to be jewel-toned and gold highlights. One of my favorite quotes is by Fabienne Fredrickson “ The things you are passionate about are not random; they are your calling, ” So I count myself incredibly fortunate to have the complete and utter joy of indulging my passion daily; creating and sharing my work with those who love and appreciate it.

Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
There are always struggles for creatives and anyone aspiring toward their goals. It’s a bumpy road, so being clear on your purpose is so important. You can move forward with the how when the why is clear and strong. Some past challenges included taking on many creative jobs such as face painting, cake painting, cookie art, murals, and pet care (walking, grooming). In the USAF at graphic design training school, I was the only female in a mixed class of 40 males. Some didn’t make it easy, and it was pointless to complain in a male-dominated environment. The hard work paid off when I graduated at the top of my class and later was promoted ahead of my peers. In Tucson, I began with mural work part-time while working full-time in graphic design. It was a narrow balance with both jobs, but eventually, I could earn enough to go full-time with my artwork. Current challenges are keeping a life-work balance and producing new work in addition to the business side of art while making quality time for my wellness, friends, and family.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a multi-media artist who creates visual art. I enjoy problem-solving with my pencil and keystrokes. My specialty? Creating luminous paintings of the natural world, the artworks I create are picture poems about animals & nature visual stories for you to enjoy. The four public murals at the Tucson International Airport and the St. Francis pet portrait paintings collection are the most well-known artworks. Successfully creating in different media is one of my strengths and has empowered me to make a living. The whimsical St. Francis pet portraits are distinct and separate businesses that have grown into small wholesale businesses. This year I was awarded another multi-media solo show, Reflections of Nature, for the Agua Caliente Ranch House Gallery in Tucson. The exhibit highlights my contemporary wildlife collection of glass paintings and mosaics.

What am I most proud of?
The ability to make a living doing what I love to bring happiness to others as a professional artist. I’ve enjoyed bringing colorful paintings and mosaics to animal lovers for public art and private commissions.

What sets me apart from the others?
The style of my reverse glass and reverse glass paintings combined with mosaics—the unique style of the St. Francis pet portrait collection. If anything describes me, it’s that I’m an explorer. While my current professional work is animal portraits, my work springs from the same place in my heart.

Do you have any advice for those just starting?
If I do have any advice, it would be:

• Take a business class and make a simple business plan. SCORE and SBA offer free workshops and mentoring. A clear, realistic plan with small steps and accountability will strengthen your commitment during challenges.
• Surround yourself with like-minded people who will support you professionally, emotionally, and mentally. Having support from friends and peers is essential. No reason to do the “I am an island” or “I don’t need help.”

What do I wish I had known starting? The last two tips. As a primarily introverted, busy person, it’s easy to let your business become your life and fill all your waking hours with projects and studio work. Understanding that busy (and love) are choices took too long. It’s essential to make time for friends and family, face to face, in addition to emails and phone calls.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://suebetanzos.com/home.html
• Instagram: @artgirlsue
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artgirlsue/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suebetanzosdesign
• Twitter: https://sue-betanzos.pixels.com
• Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/ArtOfSue/

Image Credits
Wilson Graham Photography