How did you get started and then develop your career?
Susan Hediger Matteson: To clarify, there are two Susan Mattesons working in the fine art field today. I have since started using Susan Hediger Matteson to clarify that I am not that other person!
My early days were spent decorating my parents’ basement walls. I consider myself lucky to have had great art teachers throughout my life, starting with junior high — thank you, Mrs. Burge! After earning a Fine Art degree at SIUC, then flipping burgers for a summer, I returned to school to earn a graphics degree to help put food on the table and keep my hand in art. I was lucky enough to do illustration work for the Illinois Dept. of Natural Resources, including salmon stamps for the state. After the loss of my sister, brother and father, I decided, in 2010, to pursue painting full time — something I had always wanted to do. To that end, I took up studying with artists I admire, to better my craft. I don’t think you ever stop learning — there is so much to know, and I guess that is a part of the allure.
How do you describe success?
When a good piece of art comes together. Earning a living sure helps.
How do you find inspiration?
I think life is inspiration, whether a snowfall, the way light falls across the figure, it can be just simple things.
To see more of Susan’s work, visit: www.susanmatteson.com
