| Although she has no
formal art training, Susan Norris-Romero has been drawing ever since she can
remember. In fact, she considers herself an artist in both a professional and
spiritual sense by constantly striving to improve her craft while learning
through trial and error. As a child, it was her love for horses that sparked her
interest in drawing them. Later, Susan began drawing and painting other various
wildlife such as waterfowl, then entered her work in juried art shows including
the Easton Waterfowl Festival in Easton, Maryland and the National Wildlife Art
Show in Kansas City, Missouri. Her Redhead Ducks entry into the 1984 Federal
Duck Stamp competition captured an 8th place finish from a field of 1,500
entries. These competitions led to her involvement with such groups as Ducks
Unlimited, the Ruffed Grouse Society, and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, who
relies on fine art as a fundraising function. Eventually, several of her limited
edition prints were included in the national and regional auction packages of
these organizations. From this exposure she began to entertain requests to do
commissioned paintings of hunting dogs, “which gave me great satisfaction,
knowing that I am creating art that brings someone such happiness — especially
when it's a painting or bronze sculpture of a family pet that has passed
on," remarks Susan.
Hawkwood Studios - Susan Norris-Romero
Susan moved to Raton ten years ago, and in 2000, she and husband
Ralph purchased the old Sunshine Dairy at the base of Barlett Mesa, built their
home, her studio, and now raise horses. Perhaps you have thought about having a
painting done of your loving animals. A piece of artwork is a wonderful way to
remember your best buddies long after they are gone. When commissioning a
portrait there are several things to consider. Most importantly, Susan says, “I
need a good reference, so take plenty of photos, particularly when your pets are
in their prime. If you prefer more than one animal in the same painting, it’s
best to photograph them separately; most paintings are composites of several
photos or ideas — using what is called artistic license.” How long does it
take to do a painting? “Well, that depends on many variables, such as size,
background, oil or pencil, how many subjects, how much detail and also, some
paintings or drawings are just more challenging than others.”
Susan is passionate about her artwork and enjoys discussing it,
as well as making friends by meeting new people. She invites you to visit her in
the studio, but call ahead first because she does travel. Meanwhile, you can
visit her web site to pique your interest.
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