I came across the work of this artist on Instagram.  

Her motto had me hooked from the start. 

be inspired.

live low key.

watch sunsets.

read titus 3:4-7

Once you too experience her art you will feel the same way.  I want to sit in peace when I see these beauties. Enjoy getting to know

Susie Bettenhausen

Jupiter, Florida

What is your training?

I suppose I would fall in the category of self-taught. It’s always been my God-given gift, just not one I opted to get a degree in. I don’t think I ever thought I could really make a living as an artist so the fact that I am is mind blowing. I have such a need to create and as soon as I graduated I put my creative talents to work in various small business ventures. Painting has been a natural progression from those first endeavors. I have about a million more ideas just waiting to burst forth in the creative arena! 

What inspires you and your designs?

Truly everything! I really feel that I’m in the same world with different eyes so I see composition and beauty everywhere. I’m VERY inspired by my surroundings and always have been. The ocean and its vast wide openness make my creative wheels spin! !

What is your favorite piece? 

I have so many but two of my recent favorites are “Pool On Peruvian” which is at home on Jupiter Island

and “Under a Southern Sun” which went to live in Charleston.

How has the your area influenced your work?

In so many ways… I always come back to the colors of the coast. Blues, greens and peaches are a staple in my work. Palm Beach and 30A are both known for sunny colors and washed pastels both of which come through repeatedly when I paint.

What is your favorite restaurant in Jupiter?

If I’m staying close to home I seem to always make my way to Guanabanas.

It’s the reason we live in Florida! Nothing beats eating great food on the water under canopies of palms. It’s truly a paradise! When I head to Palm Beach I love love love Buccan.

 What is your favorite cocktail?

I’m an 8 glasses of water a day and green smoothie girl

but an occasional margarita sure goes well with Mexican food!

How do you balance personal life and work?

I’m very thankful to have a job that allows so much flexibility. My husband is my biggest supporter and I honestly couldn’t do it without him. He makes it possible.

 Dream trip?

Since I live near the beach year round, I would head to west Texas. I would spend a week doing absolutely nothing except writing and drawing at the Cibolo Creek Ranch. Okay, I would also visit the spa – everyday.

Dream commission?

I’ve had some pretty amazing ones over the past year and I enjoyed each of them. I am truly blessed by my clients and I don’t say that lightly. They are well versed in art and excited to bring me into their collection and that’s very rewarding. 

Your favorite host / hostess gift to give?

Something simple. Flowers, candles, hand soaps or one of my favorite southern coffee table books

Who is your style icon?

This is actually a tough question for me. I’m not one to mimic what I see in other women in regards to style. I never look to celebrities in this sense. I’ve beat to my own drum for a long time! I have a relaxed style that works well in a coastal environment. It’s a little boho and a little classic depending on the day. I buy what’s available and wear it my own way 🙂

Your favorite up and coming artist?

Tim Gardner. His hyper-realistic watercolors amaze me. They will challenge everything you thought you knew visually about that medium. Because I don’t paint in a realistic style, I am drawn to this in the work of others.

What is your most treasured possession?

Probably my journals that go way back to the 4th grade. It’s so great to read the recap of your own life thus far! It reminds me what my strengths and weaknesses are and always makes me laugh! I had a great childhood and if so many of my stories weren’t recorded, I know I wouldn’t remember them. I love to slip back in time and read about our summer trips to explore various Caribbean islands or the daily drama of growing up in a beloved local restaurant owned by my parents in Montgomery, AL. It’s great to read about the people who have crossed your path over the years and wonder what they’re doing now. 

What are you reading?

Truthfully not much right now. I’m reading through the Bible in a year so that’s my focus.

I am however, looking forward to a book release soon by an amazing mentor and friend here in Palm Beach on control. Every woman everywhere will probably want to read this one by Jackie Kendall!

What are you listening to?

I am all over the place! My playlists have everything from Pachelbel to the Gipsy Kings.

On any given day you’re sure to hear some Mumford, Need to Breathe and Robert Earl Keen.

 What are your favorite blogs / publications?

I think the English Room is pretty spectacular! I have a hard time keeping up with all the great blogs out there so I’m thankful for snippets via Instagram. Apartment Therapy is always inspiring without a doubt.

I love Scandinavian design though so I try to sneak a peak when I can at either My Scandinavian Home

or Bungalow 5.

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Enjoy the lovely works of Susie Bettenhausen

Works on paper

Be sure to follow Susie on Instagram, Pinterest, tumblr and see her full portfolio and shop her works on her website.  

Are you curious about the Titus verse?  

Titus 3:4-7 New International Version (NIV)

4 But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared,  5 he saved us,  not because of righteous things we had done,  but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit,  6 whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior,  7 so that, having been justified by his grace,  we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.

I hope you are inspired to have a wonderful week by taking in the works of this wowen of the spirit. 

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