Sandra Schou
ABOUT THE ARTIST
My art journey began in MI at a young age, and I've wholeheartedly embraced its exploration ever since. In 9th grade, I enrolled in studio painting classes and created my first 18” x 24” oil painting of the Greek Parthenon. I even incorporated this artwork into my English project on Greek mythology, taking an unconventional path that ultimately earned me top grades.
Throughout high school and community college, I nurtured my passion for art, sharpening my skills at the Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center. I expanded my artistic repertoire by studying computer graphics and photography, focusing on capturing striking portraits and breathtaking landscapes.
At 35, I took a bold step and launched 'The Beveled Edge,' a thriving custom picture framing business that flourished for twenty years. This venture became my primary creative outlet while deepening my passion for photography. Alongside this journey, I pursued university business classes and mastered trading stocks and options, dedicating nearly two decades to this endeavor with remarkable success.
I then embarked on a transformative year of solo travel across the country, capturing stunning photography and portraits. This invaluable experience allowed me to fully embrace my artistic vision.
Now, my art journey has come full circle, reigniting a profound passion for painting. I joined a dynamic group of 12-15 talented artists who meet weekly to paint from live models. Starting with minimal experience, I welcomed the challenge and committed myself to improvement. Through consistent practice, I’ve witnessed significant growth and have begun showcasing my work in exhibitions. This inspiring collaborative environment fuels my creativity and excitement for the future.
In 2018, I embraced the exhilarating decision to purchase a condo in Peoria, AZ, where I immerse myself in the vibrant local art scene and connect with skilled artists engaged in plein air painting.
I’ve discovered a wonderful balance in my work, dividing my time between portraiture in Michigan and plein air painting in Arizona. This dual focus continually inspires me, and I eagerly anticipate what new creativity awaits. Oh, look! A squirrel! :)
