Meet Suzanne Shumate, the newly elected 2024 LWS Director at Large for Baton Rouge.
Suzanne has always had an interest in art and would seek it out in museums, gardens and galleries and by studying art and artists in books… but did not personally begin creating art until adulthood when she decided it was “now or never.” Suzanne took a painting class in a local craft store and was hooked.
Mainly self-taught, she has attended water media and drawing classes at the local community college and as well as various workshops with local and traveling artists. She enjoys trying all mediums but enjoys watercolor most of all. She is married to Guy, and they live in the country where there is an endless supply of inspiration. She and Guy also like to travel, which provides additional sources of subject matter.
Her first teacher was Joyce Bennink in Pensacola, Florida who was very patient with the newbie who had no experience and did not know where to begin. But Joyce did not let Suzanne go simple – she had to work along with the rest of the more experienced class. That made her learn quickly and not be too afraid.
Suzanne is thrilled to be on the 2024 LWS Board.