{"title":"SUZANNE WILLIS","description":"\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE ARTIST:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eCreating has been an intrinsic part of my life from a young age. I began with crayons and coloring books, progressing to more ambitious projects like designing clothes for my dolls from garage sale materials. In eighth grade, I painted my first oil landscape, which won an honorable mention at the Orange County Fair. However, this achievement also led to my painting being restricted at home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLiving independently, I took a watercolor class that deepened my passion for painting. Despite struggling with drawing and mastering watercolor techniques, I persisted through classes at junior and community colleges in Costa Mesa, and workshops with Chris Gwaltney and Lynn Torrini, who introduced me to oil painting. Though I loved the rich colors of oils, the medium’s messiness and fumes led me to explore other avenues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring this period, I became a ceramic decorator, working with high-temperature oxide powders and learning sumi ink techniques from Ning Yeh, a renowned artist. I also experimented with painting on scarves, stained glass, and paper mache, creating a three-foot desert scene that I managed to sell in a boutique.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eAs I faced various life challenges, including a missed opportunity to study in Florence, Italy, I continued to explore different artistic endeavors. I painted carousel horses, and theatre props, and engaged in silk painting. My watercolor skills gradually improved, leading to a successful solo show where I sold 38 paintings and had to repaint several due to high demand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eI taught watercolor at my church for six years, gaining valuable teaching experience and expanding my artistic practice. A chance encounter with photography further fueled my creativity, particularly in capturing beach scenes. A significant turning point came when, after losing an office job, I found an art teaching position at a local school despite lacking a degree. My work was well-received, and I taught there for three years, developing new techniques and lesson plans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLife’s difficulties, including a period of homelessness, led me to a church where I created a large acrylic painting that became a centerpiece for a sermon. This led to commissions for murals and other artworks, including a whale mural in Dana Point and a fantasy beach scene in Laguna Beach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eTeaching young children at a private school, where I learned the challenges of engaging short attention spans and reconnecting with former students, kept me involved in art. However, burnout eventually led me to pause painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring the pandemic, I rekindled my passion for art, focusing on beach-themed works and mixed media. Experimenting with different acrylic paints and techniques, including ink and markers, I rediscovered my love for watercolor and began to enjoy experimenting with color and mixed media. Now, with renewed enthusiasm and being featured in the Laguna Art Gallery, I continue to explore and create, driven by a deep-seated passion for painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/heartfaith77\/\"\u003e@heartfaith77\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"a-spring-bouquet-by-suzanne-willis-mixed-media-on-hard-paper","title":"\"A Spring Bouquet\" by Suzanne Willis, Mixed Media on Hard Paper","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDETAILS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e17\" x 14\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMixed Media on Hard Paper\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginal Artwork\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2023\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE ARTIST:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSuzanne Willis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eCreating has been an intrinsic part of my life from a young age. I began with crayons and coloring books, progressing to more ambitious projects like designing clothes for my dolls from garage sale materials. In eighth grade, I painted my first oil landscape, which won an honorable mention at the Orange County Fair. However, this achievement also led to my painting being restricted at home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLiving independently, I took a watercolor class that deepened my passion for painting. Despite struggling with drawing and mastering watercolor techniques, I persisted through classes at junior and community colleges in Costa Mesa, and workshops with Chris Gwaltney and Lynn Torrini, who introduced me to oil painting. Though I loved the rich colors of oils, the medium’s messiness and fumes led me to explore other avenues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring this period, I became a ceramic decorator, working with high-temperature oxide powders and learning sumi ink techniques from Ning Yeh, a renowned artist. I also experimented with painting on scarves, stained glass, and paper mache, creating a three-foot desert scene that I managed to sell in a boutique.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eAs I faced various life challenges, including a missed opportunity to study in Florence, Italy, I continued to explore different artistic endeavors. I painted carousel horses, and theatre props, and engaged in silk painting. My watercolor skills gradually improved, leading to a successful solo show where I sold 38 paintings and had to repaint several due to high demand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eI taught watercolor at my church for six years, gaining valuable teaching experience and expanding my artistic practice. A chance encounter with photography further fueled my creativity, particularly in capturing beach scenes. A significant turning point came when, after losing an office job, I found an art teaching position at a local school despite lacking a degree. My work was well-received, and I taught there for three years, developing new techniques and lesson plans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLife’s difficulties, including a period of homelessness, led me to a church where I created a large acrylic painting that became a centerpiece for a sermon. This led to commissions for murals and other artworks, including a whale mural in Dana Point and a fantasy beach scene in Laguna Beach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eTeaching young children at a private school, where I learned the challenges of engaging short attention spans and reconnecting with former students, kept me involved in art. However, burnout eventually led me to pause painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring the pandemic, I rekindled my passion for art, focusing on beach-themed works and mixed media. Experimenting with different acrylic paints and techniques, including ink and markers, I rediscovered my love for watercolor and began to enjoy experimenting with color and mixed media. Now, with renewed enthusiasm and being featured in the Laguna Art Gallery, I continue to explore and create, driven by a deep-seated passion for painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/heartfaith77\/\"\u003e@heartfaith77\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","brand":"LagunaART.com gallery","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49510535135511,"sku":"","price":950.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/0219\/3473\/files\/ASpringBouquet14by17MixedMedia900.00.jpg?v=1723241062"},{"product_id":"a-summer-breeze-by-suzanne-willis-mixed-media-on-hard-paper","title":"\"A Summer Breeze\" by Suzanne Willis, Mixed Media on Hard Paper","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDETAILS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e17\" x 14\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMixed Media on Hard Paper\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginal Artwork\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2023\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE ARTIST:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSuzanne Willis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eCreating has been an intrinsic part of my life from a young age. I began with crayons and coloring books, progressing to more ambitious projects like designing clothes for my dolls from garage sale materials. In eighth grade, I painted my first oil landscape, which won an honorable mention at the Orange County Fair. However, this achievement also led to my painting being restricted at home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLiving independently, I took a watercolor class that deepened my passion for painting. Despite struggling with drawing and mastering watercolor techniques, I persisted through classes at junior and community colleges in Costa Mesa, and workshops with Chris Gwaltney and Lynn Torrini, who introduced me to oil painting. Though I loved the rich colors of oils, the medium’s messiness and fumes led me to explore other avenues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring this period, I became a ceramic decorator, working with high-temperature oxide powders and learning sumi ink techniques from Ning Yeh, a renowned artist. I also experimented with painting on scarves, stained glass, and paper mache, creating a three-foot desert scene that I managed to sell in a boutique.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eAs I faced various life challenges, including a missed opportunity to study in Florence, Italy, I continued to explore different artistic endeavors. I painted carousel horses, and theatre props, and engaged in silk painting. My watercolor skills gradually improved, leading to a successful solo show where I sold 38 paintings and had to repaint several due to high demand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eI taught watercolor at my church for six years, gaining valuable teaching experience and expanding my artistic practice. A chance encounter with photography further fueled my creativity, particularly in capturing beach scenes. A significant turning point came when, after losing an office job, I found an art teaching position at a local school despite lacking a degree. My work was well-received, and I taught there for three years, developing new techniques and lesson plans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLife’s difficulties, including a period of homelessness, led me to a church where I created a large acrylic painting that became a centerpiece for a sermon. This led to commissions for murals and other artworks, including a whale mural in Dana Point and a fantasy beach scene in Laguna Beach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eTeaching young children at a private school, where I learned the challenges of engaging short attention spans and reconnecting with former students, kept me involved in art. However, burnout eventually led me to pause painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring the pandemic, I rekindled my passion for art, focusing on beach-themed works and mixed media. Experimenting with different acrylic paints and techniques, including ink and markers, I rediscovered my love for watercolor and began to enjoy experimenting with color and mixed media. Now, with renewed enthusiasm and being featured in the Laguna Art Gallery, I continue to explore and create, driven by a deep-seated passion for painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/heartfaith77\/\"\u003e@heartfaith77\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","brand":"LagunaART.com gallery","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49510577832215,"sku":null,"price":950.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/0219\/3473\/files\/ASummerBreeze14by17MixedMedia900.00.jpg?v=1723241504"},{"product_id":"pink-glass-vase-by-suzanne-willis-mixed-media-on-hard-paper","title":"\"Pink Glass Vase\" by Suzanne Willis, Mixed Media on Hard Paper","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDETAILS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e17\" x 14\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMixed Media on Hard Paper\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginal Artwork\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2023\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE ARTIST:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSuzanne Willis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eCreating has been an intrinsic part of my life from a young age. I began with crayons and coloring books, progressing to more ambitious projects like designing clothes for my dolls from garage sale materials. In eighth grade, I painted my first oil landscape, which won an honorable mention at the Orange County Fair. However, this achievement also led to my painting being restricted at home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLiving independently, I took a watercolor class that deepened my passion for painting. Despite struggling with drawing and mastering watercolor techniques, I persisted through classes at junior and community colleges in Costa Mesa, and workshops with Chris Gwaltney and Lynn Torrini, who introduced me to oil painting. Though I loved the rich colors of oils, the medium’s messiness and fumes led me to explore other avenues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring this period, I became a ceramic decorator, working with high-temperature oxide powders and learning sumi ink techniques from Ning Yeh, a renowned artist. I also experimented with painting on scarves, stained glass, and paper mache, creating a three-foot desert scene that I managed to sell in a boutique.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eAs I faced various life challenges, including a missed opportunity to study in Florence, Italy, I continued to explore different artistic endeavors. I painted carousel horses, and theatre props, and engaged in silk painting. My watercolor skills gradually improved, leading to a successful solo show where I sold 38 paintings and had to repaint several due to high demand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eI taught watercolor at my church for six years, gaining valuable teaching experience and expanding my artistic practice. A chance encounter with photography further fueled my creativity, particularly in capturing beach scenes. A significant turning point came when, after losing an office job, I found an art teaching position at a local school despite lacking a degree. My work was well-received, and I taught there for three years, developing new techniques and lesson plans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLife’s difficulties, including a period of homelessness, led me to a church where I created a large acrylic painting that became a centerpiece for a sermon. This led to commissions for murals and other artworks, including a whale mural in Dana Point and a fantasy beach scene in Laguna Beach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eTeaching young children at a private school, where I learned the challenges of engaging short attention spans and reconnecting with former students, kept me involved in art. However, burnout eventually led me to pause painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring the pandemic, I rekindled my passion for art, focusing on beach-themed works and mixed media. Experimenting with different acrylic paints and techniques, including ink and markers, I rediscovered my love for watercolor and began to enjoy experimenting with color and mixed media. Now, with renewed enthusiasm and being featured in the Laguna Art Gallery, I continue to explore and create, driven by a deep-seated passion for painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/heartfaith77\/\"\u003e@heartfaith77\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","brand":"LagunaART.com gallery","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49510585827607,"sku":null,"price":950.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/0219\/3473\/files\/PinkGlassVase14by17MixedMedia900.00year2023.jpg?v=1723241774"},{"product_id":"red-roses-with-orange-by-suzanne-willis-mixed-media-on-hard-paper","title":"\"Red Roses with Orange\" by Suzanne Willis, Mixed Media on Hard Paper","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDETAILS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e17\" x 14\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMixed Media on Hard Paper\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginal Artwork\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2023\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE ARTIST:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSuzanne Willis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eCreating has been an intrinsic part of my life from a young age. I began with crayons and coloring books, progressing to more ambitious projects like designing clothes for my dolls from garage sale materials. In eighth grade, I painted my first oil landscape, which won an honorable mention at the Orange County Fair. However, this achievement also led to my painting being restricted at home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLiving independently, I took a watercolor class that deepened my passion for painting. Despite struggling with drawing and mastering watercolor techniques, I persisted through classes at junior and community colleges in Costa Mesa, and workshops with Chris Gwaltney and Lynn Torrini, who introduced me to oil painting. Though I loved the rich colors of oils, the medium’s messiness and fumes led me to explore other avenues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring this period, I became a ceramic decorator, working with high-temperature oxide powders and learning sumi ink techniques from Ning Yeh, a renowned artist. I also experimented with painting on scarves, stained glass, and paper mache, creating a three-foot desert scene that I managed to sell in a boutique.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eAs I faced various life challenges, including a missed opportunity to study in Florence, Italy, I continued to explore different artistic endeavors. I painted carousel horses, and theatre props, and engaged in silk painting. My watercolor skills gradually improved, leading to a successful solo show where I sold 38 paintings and had to repaint several due to high demand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eI taught watercolor at my church for six years, gaining valuable teaching experience and expanding my artistic practice. A chance encounter with photography further fueled my creativity, particularly in capturing beach scenes. A significant turning point came when, after losing an office job, I found an art teaching position at a local school despite lacking a degree. My work was well-received, and I taught there for three years, developing new techniques and lesson plans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLife’s difficulties, including a period of homelessness, led me to a church where I created a large acrylic painting that became a centerpiece for a sermon. This led to commissions for murals and other artworks, including a whale mural in Dana Point and a fantasy beach scene in Laguna Beach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eTeaching young children at a private school, where I learned the challenges of engaging short attention spans and reconnecting with former students, kept me involved in art. However, burnout eventually led me to pause painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring the pandemic, I rekindled my passion for art, focusing on beach-themed works and mixed media. Experimenting with different acrylic paints and techniques, including ink and markers, I rediscovered my love for watercolor and began to enjoy experimenting with color and mixed media. Now, with renewed enthusiasm and being featured in the Laguna Art Gallery, I continue to explore and create, driven by a deep-seated passion for painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/heartfaith77\/\"\u003e@heartfaith77\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","brand":"LagunaART.com gallery","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49510603948311,"sku":null,"price":950.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/0219\/3473\/files\/RedRoseswithOrange14by17MixedMedia900.00yr2023.jpg?v=1723242013"},{"product_id":"the-blue-bird-by-suzanne-willis-mixed-media-on-hard-paper","title":"\"The Blue Bird\" by Suzanne Willis, Mixed Media on Hard Paper","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDETAILS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e17\" x 14\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMixed Media on Hard Paper\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginal Artwork\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2023\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE ARTIST:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSuzanne Willis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eCreating has been an intrinsic part of my life from a young age. I began with crayons and coloring books, progressing to more ambitious projects like designing clothes for my dolls from garage sale materials. In eighth grade, I painted my first oil landscape, which won an honorable mention at the Orange County Fair. However, this achievement also led to my painting being restricted at home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLiving independently, I took a watercolor class that deepened my passion for painting. Despite struggling with drawing and mastering watercolor techniques, I persisted through classes at junior and community colleges in Costa Mesa, and workshops with Chris Gwaltney and Lynn Torrini, who introduced me to oil painting. Though I loved the rich colors of oils, the medium’s messiness and fumes led me to explore other avenues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring this period, I became a ceramic decorator, working with high-temperature oxide powders and learning sumi ink techniques from Ning Yeh, a renowned artist. I also experimented with painting on scarves, stained glass, and paper mache, creating a three-foot desert scene that I managed to sell in a boutique.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eAs I faced various life challenges, including a missed opportunity to study in Florence, Italy, I continued to explore different artistic endeavors. I painted carousel horses, and theatre props, and engaged in silk painting. My watercolor skills gradually improved, leading to a successful solo show where I sold 38 paintings and had to repaint several due to high demand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eI taught watercolor at my church for six years, gaining valuable teaching experience and expanding my artistic practice. A chance encounter with photography further fueled my creativity, particularly in capturing beach scenes. A significant turning point came when, after losing an office job, I found an art teaching position at a local school despite lacking a degree. My work was well-received, and I taught there for three years, developing new techniques and lesson plans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLife’s difficulties, including a period of homelessness, led me to a church where I created a large acrylic painting that became a centerpiece for a sermon. This led to commissions for murals and other artworks, including a whale mural in Dana Point and a fantasy beach scene in Laguna Beach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eTeaching young children at a private school, where I learned the challenges of engaging short attention spans and reconnecting with former students, kept me involved in art. However, burnout eventually led me to pause painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring the pandemic, I rekindled my passion for art, focusing on beach-themed works and mixed media. Experimenting with different acrylic paints and techniques, including ink and markers, I rediscovered my love for watercolor and began to enjoy experimenting with color and mixed media. Now, with renewed enthusiasm and being featured in the Laguna Art Gallery, I continue to explore and create, driven by a deep-seated passion for painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/heartfaith77\/\"\u003e@heartfaith77\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","brand":"LagunaART.com gallery","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49510733840663,"sku":null,"price":950.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/0219\/3473\/files\/TheBlueBird14by17MixedMedia900.00yr2023.jpg?v=1723245475"},{"product_id":"three-rose-buds-by-suzanne-willis-mixed-media-on-hard-paper","title":"\"Three Rose Buds\" by Suzanne Willis, Mixed Media on Hard Paper","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDETAILS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e17\" x 14\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMixed Media on Hard Paper\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginal Artwork\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2023\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE ARTIST:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSuzanne Willis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eCreating has been an intrinsic part of my life from a young age. I began with crayons and coloring books, progressing to more ambitious projects like designing clothes for my dolls from garage sale materials. In eighth grade, I painted my first oil landscape, which won an honorable mention at the Orange County Fair. However, this achievement also led to my painting being restricted at home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLiving independently, I took a watercolor class that deepened my passion for painting. Despite struggling with drawing and mastering watercolor techniques, I persisted through classes at junior and community colleges in Costa Mesa, and workshops with Chris Gwaltney and Lynn Torrini, who introduced me to oil painting. Though I loved the rich colors of oils, the medium’s messiness and fumes led me to explore other avenues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring this period, I became a ceramic decorator, working with high-temperature oxide powders and learning sumi ink techniques from Ning Yeh, a renowned artist. I also experimented with painting on scarves, stained glass, and paper mache, creating a three-foot desert scene that I managed to sell in a boutique.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eAs I faced various life challenges, including a missed opportunity to study in Florence, Italy, I continued to explore different artistic endeavors. I painted carousel horses, and theatre props, and engaged in silk painting. My watercolor skills gradually improved, leading to a successful solo show where I sold 38 paintings and had to repaint several due to high demand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eI taught watercolor at my church for six years, gaining valuable teaching experience and expanding my artistic practice. A chance encounter with photography further fueled my creativity, particularly in capturing beach scenes. A significant turning point came when, after losing an office job, I found an art teaching position at a local school despite lacking a degree. My work was well-received, and I taught there for three years, developing new techniques and lesson plans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLife’s difficulties, including a period of homelessness, led me to a church where I created a large acrylic painting that became a centerpiece for a sermon. This led to commissions for murals and other artworks, including a whale mural in Dana Point and a fantasy beach scene in Laguna Beach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eTeaching young children at a private school, where I learned the challenges of engaging short attention spans and reconnecting with former students, kept me involved in art. However, burnout eventually led me to pause painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring the pandemic, I rekindled my passion for art, focusing on beach-themed works and mixed media. Experimenting with different acrylic paints and techniques, including ink and markers, I rediscovered my love for watercolor and began to enjoy experimenting with color and mixed media. Now, with renewed enthusiasm and being featured in the Laguna Art Gallery, I continue to explore and create, driven by a deep-seated passion for painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/heartfaith77\/\"\u003e@heartfaith77\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","brand":"LagunaART.com gallery","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49510759432471,"sku":null,"price":950.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/0219\/3473\/files\/ThreeRoseBuds14by17MixedMedia900.00yr2023.jpg?v=1723245572"},{"product_id":"tiger-lilies-drip-by-suzanne-willis-mixed-media-on-hard-paper","title":"\"Tiger Lilies Drip\" by Suzanne Willis, 140LB Cold Press D Arches Watercolor Paper","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDETAILS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e22\" x 30\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e140LB Cold Press D Arches Watercolor Paper\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginal Artwork\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2020\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE ARTIST:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSuzanne Willis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eCreating has been an intrinsic part of my life from a young age. I began with crayons and coloring books, progressing to more ambitious projects like designing clothes for my dolls from garage sale materials. In eighth grade, I painted my first oil landscape, which won an honorable mention at the Orange County Fair. However, this achievement also led to my painting being restricted at home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLiving independently, I took a watercolor class that deepened my passion for painting. Despite struggling with drawing and mastering watercolor techniques, I persisted through classes at junior and community colleges in Costa Mesa, and workshops with Chris Gwaltney and Lynn Torrini, who introduced me to oil painting. Though I loved the rich colors of oils, the medium’s messiness and fumes led me to explore other avenues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring this period, I became a ceramic decorator, working with high-temperature oxide powders and learning sumi ink techniques from Ning Yeh, a renowned artist. I also experimented with painting on scarves, stained glass, and paper mache, creating a three-foot desert scene that I managed to sell in a boutique.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eAs I faced various life challenges, including a missed opportunity to study in Florence, Italy, I continued to explore different artistic endeavors. I painted carousel horses, and theatre props, and engaged in silk painting. My watercolor skills gradually improved, leading to a successful solo show where I sold 38 paintings and had to repaint several due to high demand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eI taught watercolor at my church for six years, gaining valuable teaching experience and expanding my artistic practice. A chance encounter with photography further fueled my creativity, particularly in capturing beach scenes. A significant turning point came when, after losing an office job, I found an art teaching position at a local school despite lacking a degree. My work was well-received, and I taught there for three years, developing new techniques and lesson plans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLife’s difficulties, including a period of homelessness, led me to a church where I created a large acrylic painting that became a centerpiece for a sermon. This led to commissions for murals and other artworks, including a whale mural in Dana Point and a fantasy beach scene in Laguna Beach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eTeaching young children at a private school, where I learned the challenges of engaging short attention spans and reconnecting with former students, kept me involved in art. However, burnout eventually led me to pause painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring the pandemic, I rekindled my passion for art, focusing on beach-themed works and mixed media. Experimenting with different acrylic paints and techniques, including ink and markers, I rediscovered my love for watercolor and began to enjoy experimenting with color and mixed media. Now, with renewed enthusiasm and being featured in the Laguna Art Gallery, I continue to explore and create, driven by a deep-seated passion for painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/heartfaith77\/\"\u003e@heartfaith77\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","brand":"LagunaART.com gallery","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49510793314583,"sku":null,"price":1200.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/0219\/3473\/files\/TigerLiliesDripiwthColor22by30Watercolor1200.00yr2020.jpg?v=1723248527"},{"product_id":"calla-lilies-with-fuschite-green-by-suzanne-willis-140lb-cold-press-d-arches-watercolor-paper","title":"\"Calla Lilies with Fuschite Green\" by Suzanne Willis, 140LB Cold Press D Arches Watercolor Paper","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDETAILS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e20\" x 22\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e140LB Cold Press D Arches Watercolor Paper\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginal Artwork\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2021\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE ARTIST:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSuzanne Willis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eCreating has been an intrinsic part of my life from a young age. I began with crayons and coloring books, progressing to more ambitious projects like designing clothes for my dolls from garage sale materials. In eighth grade, I painted my first oil landscape, which won an honorable mention at the Orange County Fair. However, this achievement also led to my painting being restricted at home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLiving independently, I took a watercolor class that deepened my passion for painting. Despite struggling with drawing and mastering watercolor techniques, I persisted through classes at junior and community colleges in Costa Mesa, and workshops with Chris Gwaltney and Lynn Torrini, who introduced me to oil painting. Though I loved the rich colors of oils, the medium’s messiness and fumes led me to explore other avenues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring this period, I became a ceramic decorator, working with high-temperature oxide powders and learning sumi ink techniques from Ning Yeh, a renowned artist. I also experimented with painting on scarves, stained glass, and paper mache, creating a three-foot desert scene that I managed to sell in a boutique.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eAs I faced various life challenges, including a missed opportunity to study in Florence, Italy, I continued to explore different artistic endeavors. I painted carousel horses, and theatre props, and engaged in silk painting. My watercolor skills gradually improved, leading to a successful solo show where I sold 38 paintings and had to repaint several due to high demand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eI taught watercolor at my church for six years, gaining valuable teaching experience and expanding my artistic practice. A chance encounter with photography further fueled my creativity, particularly in capturing beach scenes. A significant turning point came when, after losing an office job, I found an art teaching position at a local school despite lacking a degree. My work was well-received, and I taught there for three years, developing new techniques and lesson plans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLife’s difficulties, including a period of homelessness, led me to a church where I created a large acrylic painting that became a centerpiece for a sermon. This led to commissions for murals and other artworks, including a whale mural in Dana Point and a fantasy beach scene in Laguna Beach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eTeaching young children at a private school, where I learned the challenges of engaging short attention spans and reconnecting with former students, kept me involved in art. However, burnout eventually led me to pause painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring the pandemic, I rekindled my passion for art, focusing on beach-themed works and mixed media. Experimenting with different acrylic paints and techniques, including ink and markers, I rediscovered my love for watercolor and began to enjoy experimenting with color and mixed media. Now, with renewed enthusiasm and being featured in the Laguna Art Gallery, I continue to explore and create, driven by a deep-seated passion for painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/heartfaith77\/\"\u003e@heartfaith77\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","brand":"LagunaART.com gallery","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49510800064791,"sku":null,"price":1200.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/0219\/3473\/files\/CallaLilieswithFuschiteGreen22by30Watercolor1200.00.jpg?v=1723248703"},{"product_id":"favorite-seashells-by-suzanne-willis-140lb-cold-press-d-arches-watercolor-paper","title":"\"Favorite Seashells\" by Suzanne Willis, 140LB Cold Press D Arches Watercolor Paper","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDETAILS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e16\" x 20\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e140LB Cold Press D Arches Watercolor Paper\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginal Artwork\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2021\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE ARTIST:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSuzanne Willis\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eCreating has been an intrinsic part of my life from a young age. I began with crayons and coloring books, progressing to more ambitious projects like designing clothes for my dolls from garage sale materials. In eighth grade, I painted my first oil landscape, which won an honorable mention at the Orange County Fair. However, this achievement also led to my painting being restricted at home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLiving independently, I took a watercolor class that deepened my passion for painting. Despite struggling with drawing and mastering watercolor techniques, I persisted through classes at junior and community colleges in Costa Mesa, and workshops with Chris Gwaltney and Lynn Torrini, who introduced me to oil painting. Though I loved the rich colors of oils, the medium’s messiness and fumes led me to explore other avenues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring this period, I became a ceramic decorator, working with high-temperature oxide powders and learning sumi ink techniques from Ning Yeh, a renowned artist. I also experimented with painting on scarves, stained glass, and paper mache, creating a three-foot desert scene that I managed to sell in a boutique.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eAs I faced various life challenges, including a missed opportunity to study in Florence, Italy, I continued to explore different artistic endeavors. I painted carousel horses, and theatre props, and engaged in silk painting. My watercolor skills gradually improved, leading to a successful solo show where I sold 38 paintings and had to repaint several due to high demand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eI taught watercolor at my church for six years, gaining valuable teaching experience and expanding my artistic practice. A chance encounter with photography further fueled my creativity, particularly in capturing beach scenes. A significant turning point came when, after losing an office job, I found an art teaching position at a local school despite lacking a degree. My work was well-received, and I taught there for three years, developing new techniques and lesson plans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eLife’s difficulties, including a period of homelessness, led me to a church where I created a large acrylic painting that became a centerpiece for a sermon. This led to commissions for murals and other artworks, including a whale mural in Dana Point and a fantasy beach scene in Laguna Beach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eTeaching young children at a private school, where I learned the challenges of engaging short attention spans and reconnecting with former students, kept me involved in art. However, burnout eventually led me to pause painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eDuring the pandemic, I rekindled my passion for art, focusing on beach-themed works and mixed media. Experimenting with different acrylic paints and techniques, including ink and markers, I rediscovered my love for watercolor and began to enjoy experimenting with color and mixed media. Now, with renewed enthusiasm and being featured in the Laguna Art Gallery, I continue to explore and create, driven by a deep-seated passion for painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstagram: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/heartfaith77\/\"\u003e@heartfaith77\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","brand":"LagunaART.com gallery","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49510809272599,"sku":null,"price":900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0008\/0219\/3473\/files\/FavoriteSeashells16by20Watercolor900.00.jpg?v=1723249465"}],"url":"https:\/\/lagunaart-com.myshopify.com\/collections\/suzanne-willis.oembed","provider":"LagunaART.com","version":"1.0","type":"link"}