Susan Imwalle grew up in Portland, Oregon. She became interested in art at a very early age and this was due to the encouragement of her father, who was also an artist. She received her bachelor of fine arts in art education at the University of Oregon, where she met her husband Richard Imwalle. Soon after her marriage she followed her husband to Seoul, South Korea, where she taught in the Department of Defense schools at the Eighth Army Headquarters. Several years later, upon returning to the States, the family moved to Southern California. While raising her young family, Susan focused her energies on designing logos, letterhead and invitations for various organizations. Five years later the family decided to move to Arizona.
Susan Imwalle 'Past and Present’ 36x36
Susan Imwalle
'Past and Present’ 36x36
It was at this time in her life that Susan became especially enthralled by the vitality in the sunlight that was present in the desert southwest landscape. The medium of watercolor seemed especially suitable, and she began to paint and teach using this medium. Over the past thirty years she has led various groups of painters in all levels of ability to many destinations in Europe as well as to many locations in Mexico.
Of noteworthy mention, Susan was commissioned by the Patronatos of San Xavier to paint an image of the Mission to commemorate their bicentennial celebration. On several occasions she was also commissioned by the University of Arizona to capture the image of their historic Old Main.
Susan’s paintings have been displayed in galleries all over the state of Arizona and may be found in private and public collections throughout the United States and Europe.