About the artist:

Susan Rios’ ability to evoke familiar feelings through her paintings is the hallmark of her work. A nationally renowned artist, Susan works with a palette of soft, warm colors, inviting viewers to step into a world where one tranquil moment can last an eternity. Largely self-taught, Susan’s artistic potential was apparent even as a child. Her love of the outdoors inspired her to begin drawing scenes from nature. Today, she continues to find inspiration in the gentle-hearted beauty of everyday life. Susan’s surroundings are reminiscent of the images she paints. Working from her home-based studio in Glendale, Ca, many aspects of her world are subjects in her paintings - daughter Olivia, granddaughter Rosie, her cats and countless collectibles. A painter of feelings and emotions, Susan creates familiar scenes that exude peace, harmony and romance. Images of cozy interiors, lush floral gardens and soothing seashores uplift the senses and the spirit. When painting, she devotes herself to one image at a time. The close relationship she develops with each painting radiates from the canvas, evoking a sense of emotional closeness and intimacy that distinguishes her work from other contemporary artists. She prefers working with acrylics because they dry quickly, allowing her to catch a little moment in time and then share it with others. A professional artist for more than 25 years, Susan spent the early years of her career working as a floral designer. She soon discovered that blending flowers was similar to mixing colors on a palette. To this day, flowers are an ever-present motif in many of her paintings, as are other "favorite things" - wicker chairs, love seats draped with afghans, intricate bits of lace, china cups and teapots. An active participant in causes that touch her heart, Susan devotedly supports charities and nationwide organizations, including the Los Angeles Children’s Hospital, Saddleback Community Outreach (Orange County), Taylor Family Foundation, Make a Wish Foundation and The Ronald McDonald House of Orange County. Over the last quarter-century, Susan’s work has attracted the attention of many noted collectors and celebrities who have added her paintings to their private collection such as Jane Seymour, Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Dern, Priscilla Presley, Phyllis George, Ann Gillian, Sandy Duncan, Shelley Fabres, Andre Agassi, Mr. & Mrs. Brian Wilson and Mr. & Mrs. Walter Mathau. The timeless, enduring beauty of her work continues to garner attention from art enthusiasts, young and old alike. The emotional impact of her paintings however, is the most important element. As an artist, she says, that is her true reward.