Susie Cortez is a fine art consultant and visual artist known for creating artwork that beautifully blends imagination and reality. With over 20 years of experience in visual arts, Susie’s jour- ney has taken her across the east and west coasts, Italy, the Caribbean, and Central America. In 2018, she moved to Dallas to focus fully on her art, showcasing her work at exhibitions and live painting events worldwide. One of her proudest mo- ments came when she became the first Salvadoran artist invited to paint at the National Gallery in Washington, DC, in March 2018.Skilled in a variety of mediums, including watercolor, gouache, acrylics, oils, digital, charcoal, and body painting, Susie con- tinuously explores new techniques and palettes to bring her vi- sions to life on canvas, paper, and wood. Her art is driven by a desire to evoke emotions and invite viewers to connect with her creative narrative.

Beyond her artwork, Susie is committed to giving back and regularly partners with various charities to make a positive impact. Her mantra, "Capturing Beauty," reflects her dedication to finding and sharing beauty in both her art and the world around her.

A full-time artist, Susie travels frequently for exhibitions and live painting events, sharing her passion for art with people across the globe.

1. What inspired you to found {business} and what were the main challenges you faced?

My inspiration came from a deep desire to create meaningful work that resonates with people on a personal level. After years of studying fine art and working under the mentorship of Larry Gluck, I found my unique artistic voice during my travels, particularly in Turks and Caicos, where the colors and light profoundly influenced my style.The biggest challenge was establishing myself as a professional artist—it’s not just about creating; it’s about branding, marketing, and understanding the business side of art. Another challenge was navigating the shift from working in traditional fine art to embracing contemporary and multidisciplinary approaches while staying true to my vision.

2. Did you start the venture alone?

Yes and no. While the creative journey has been deeply personal, I’ve had incredible mentors, collectors, and fellow artists who have supported me along the way. Moving to Dallas in 2015 was a pivotal moment—it allowed me to immerse myself in a thriving art scene, build connections, and grow my career. Over time, I’ve also collaborated with brands, galleries, and institutions that have helped elevate my work to new audiences.

3. What's your business model, and how have you grown your revenue?

My business model is multifaceted—it includes original artwork sales, commissions, licensing, exhibitions, and collaborations. I’ve also expanded into curating experiences, from personalized pieces for collectors to luxury spaces.Growth has come through:

• Building an online presence through Instagram, my website, and collaborations or high-profile clients.
• Strategic partnerships with galleries, brands, and collectors.
• Diversifying income streams, such as offering limited-edition prints, workshops, and commissioned projects.
• Storytelling and authenticity, which allows my audience to connect with my work on a deeper level.

Ultimately, my goal is to continue creating work that inspires, challenges, and connects people, while expanding my reach and making art accessible in unexpected spaces.