Suzanne Barrett Justis

Suzanne Barrett Justis grew up in an artistic environment in upstate New York. Having a professional artist as a mother definitely influenced Suzanne by exposing her to lots of mediums and opportunities to create art at a very early age. Being primarily an animal artist, Suzanne has also been influenced and inspired by artists such as wildlife artists Robert Bateman and John Kuhn as well as portrait artist John Singer Sargent. 

Having a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science has served Suzanne well in her ability to capture the essence and nuance of all the animal subjects she paints. Her understanding of the animal's habitats and mannerisms is quite evident in her works. Suzanne continues to learn all she can about the animal world she paints by touring the zoos and animal parks throughout the country. 

Suzanne Barrett Justis lives with her family in Kingsport, Tennessee where she has her own art gallery and studio downtown.  She can be found most days in her studio where she paints and teaches.  Suzanne has several select students she works with, some of whom have gone on to paint professionally as well.  Suzanne is also a lead animal artist for the Kingsport Carousel Project.  In this role, Suzanne has taught all the volunteers how to paint the hand carved carousel animals that are featured on this carousel.