Contact_Susan – Reitmann – Reithaven Studio @ the Cottage

Artist Bio

Susan Reitmann grew up in the Swiss mountains and has lived in various places across the U.S. and Australia. She raised her family in Corpus Christi before retiring as a science teacher and settling in Georgetown, Texas, a decade ago. Her artistic journey began in the early 1990s with tole painting, where she honed her eye for detail by painting on wood, metal, and nearly any surface she could find.
Her passion for painting deepened through mission work in Guatemala, where she fell in love with the vibrant colors and the warmth of the people. Inspired by these experiences, she began capturing the essence of the region’s people and children in her artwork. Her painting Wisdom, depicting a 90-year-old Guatemalan woman, won first place at the 2019 Wine and Cheese Art Gala in Round Rock, Texas, while Watchful Eye, a portrait of a young girl, earned the People’s Choice Award.
In 2020, Susan and her husband built an art studio on their property, providing her with a dedicated space to paint and share her passion with others. Working in acrylics, oils, graphite, and pastels, she has created commissioned pieces across Texas and has exhibited her work in various art shows. Her paintings, often centered on people, animals, and flowers, are known for their striking realism—her detailed depictions of miniature goats have even been mistaken for photographs.
After stepping away briefly to care for aging parents, Susan is back in the art scene, continuing to create and share her love of painting.

Artist Journey

I have always had a deep love for nature and God’s creations. Growing up in Switzerland, I developed a special connection to the natural world, especially wildflowers. What started as a hobby in tole painting and craft shows has evolved into creating portraits of people and animals. I primarily work with acrylics and oils, but I also enjoy graphite drawings of my children and grandchildren. Some of my favorite pieces capture the “smart aleck” expressions of my children, which bring a personal touch to my work.
I aim to replicate the beauty I see in the people, animals, and flowers around me. While my artist’s eye tends to focus on intricate details, I also love experimenting with the freedom and looseness that comes with using a palette knife. Painting portraits, whether of animals or of family and friends, allows me to express my love and appreciation for life. Recently, my grandchildren have sparked a new wave of inspiration in my artistic journey, adding even more meaning to my work.

Wisdom

Award Winning, First Place
16 x 20 Acrylic on Canvas

Private Collection
8 x 10 Matted Prints Available
reithaven@gmail.com