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Some of my earliest memories are about the interaction of either horses or art. Like so many I became enamored by the grace and majesty of these incredible animals. I portray horses as I see their strengths and at the center of it all, I hope you find their heart.
Suzanne Nielsen

Born in Pasadena, California, Suzanne began both riding and painting lessons at age 5. Growing up immersed in both she began to fuse these passions together. Inspired by her travels through Europe and starting with her first pony at age 5 her love of horses and art became a permanent part of how she views the world.

Suzanne has studied at Art Center College of Design, in Pasadena, CA and has earned her degree in Fine Art from California Polytechnic University in Pomona, where she again studied both the equine and art industries. She has also studied under such masters as Glen Vilppu and Steve Huston.

For several years she worked in the animation industry where she studied the anatomy of humans and animals, as well as character development, movement, and story. She infuses these elements into her paintings to bring life to these subjects in paint and charcoal.

Now living in Chester, VT her passion for painting horses has expanded to include that of all pets and people. Her loyal friends and muses, four rambunctious huskies, as well as a variety of local horses and equestrian events inspire her daily to continue to create and share the beauty of these subjects to those who would share her vision.

“The sight of a horse did something to me I’ve never been able to explain. He was more than tremendous strength and speed and beauty of motion. He set me dreaming.”
~Walt Morey

Awards


  • 2014 2nd place NJEAA “Art Of The Horse”

  • 2016 2nd place NJEAA “Art Of The Horse”

  • 2016 Honorable mention Equine Jubilee

  • 2018 Honors finalist AAEA Spring Online Show

  • 2024  Finalist Hampton Classic Horse Show Poster

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    Exhibitions


    • American Academy of Equine Art Fall Exhibition 2009, 2010, 2012

    • New Jersey Equine Art Association “Art Of The Horse” 2014, 2016

    • Studio C Los Angeles, CA “Bareback: Symmetry In Motion” 2016, 2017

    • American Academy of Equine Art, KY “Online Spring Exhibition” 2018

    • New Jersey Equine Art Assoc, NJ Bi-Annual “Art Of The Horse”2018

    • Artbox Zürich, Zürich Switzerland 2019

    • Member of The Society Of Equestrian Artists 2024

    • The Almanera Collection Online Exhibition and Art Prize, Cordoba Spain 2024

      • Testimonials

      • Maple
        "I am amazed how Suzanne was able to capture Maple's personality, and bring it out so beautifully! The portrait captures everything Maple is and everthing she means to me. I will cherish this gift for my lifetime." Beth C.
        "I am amazed how Suzanne was able to capture Maple's personality, and bring it out so beautifully! The portrait captures everything Maple is and everthing she means to me. I will cherish this gift for my lifetime." Beth C.
      • Duncan
        "My decision to commission Suzanne was based on her talent, which is evident in her work, as well as her sensitivity to, and knowledge of, horses. I trusted her to capture the essence of Duncan, and she succeeded beyond my expectation!" ~ Linda C.
        "My decision to commission Suzanne was based on her talent, which is evident in her work, as well as her sensitivity to, and knowledge of, horses. I trusted her to capture the essence of Duncan, and she succeeded beyond my expectation!" ~ Linda C.
      • Jessie
        "Suzy created a wonderful portrait of Jessie. The tilt of her head, her expression-it's her all over and we love it!" Nancy & Gareth H.
        "Suzy created a wonderful portrait of Jessie. The tilt of her head, her expression-it's her all over and we love it!" Nancy & Gareth H.
      • Makaylah & Dahlia
        "Suzanne was able to capture the true essence of my girls. The life and energy that radiates from this piece has transformed our living room." Hannah P-K.
        "Suzanne was able to capture the true essence of my girls. The life and energy that radiates from this piece has transformed our living room." Hannah P-K.

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