About Susan Delgado
Narrative Fine Artist
Narrative fine artist and visual storyteller exploring symbolism, fantasy, memory and the natural world through traditional painting.
About the Artist
Susan Delgado is a narrative fine artist, designer and educator whose creative practice is rooted in continual study, traditional craft and visual storytelling.
Working primarily in oil and acrylic, her paintings move between wildlife, observational studies and imaginative narrative subjects. Her work draws on classical painting methods, atmospheric light, symbolism and an ongoing study of drawing, anatomy, composition and the natural world.
Alongside her studio practice, Susan teaches art and creative technologies through individualized instruction. Her background in design and web development continues to inform the way she approaches structure, problem-solving and the development of complex visual ideas.
The Process
Research, Concept & Development
Every work begins in the mind and the sketchbook. This is the season of Research and Concept Development, where references are gathered, historical masters are studied, and the first seeds of the composition are sown through rough sketches and thematic exploration.
Digital Refinement & Mock-ups
To ensure a flawless composition, the vision moves into Digital Refinement. Here, mock-ups are crafted to test light, shadow, and color harmony. This modern alchemy allows for the perfection of the blueprint before a single drop of pigment touches the surface.
Canvas Preparation & Transfer
The physical work begins with Preparation and Transfer. Canvas and panels are sealed to prevent the archival decay of the paint, and canvases are gessoed to the desired tooth. Once the ground is prime, the refined composition is hand-drawn or painted directly onto the surface to establish the bones of the piece.
Underpainting & Imprimatura
With the drawing set, I move into Underpainting and Imprimatura. This stage is fluid, I may lay down a traditional tonal underpainting to map out values, or I may wash the canvas in a vibrant imprimatura. I often begin building the illustration atop these fresh lines while the paint is still wet, allowing for a dynamic start.
The Painting Process
The final act is the Painting Process itself. Whether working in layers or through direct application, this is where the full spectrum of pigment is brought to bear. It is a meticulous building texture, refining details, and breathing life into the work until the final stroke is placed.
The Antique Booth
To fund her practice and professional materials, Susan maintains an active booth in a local antique store. This serves as an outlet for her technical studies, experimental pieces, and unique hand-painted vintage items.
Teaching & Resources
Susan offers private tutoring via Wyzant and shares her full "business of art" process on Patreon, including downloadable outlines and behind-the-scenes insights.
Learn the CraftGUILDS AND COMMUNITY
Susan is a member of
Burlington County Art Guild,
Willingboro Art Alliance,
Perkins Center for the Arts
and the
South Jersey Cultural Alliance