Getting to Know the Locals: Susan Tolonen

Susan is a local Milwaukee illustrator who works in advertising, editorial, and children’s book publishing.  Her bold, bright creations are full of whimsy, using shape in a way that makes her pieces lightly flow together with beautiful movement. Here is what she had to say about her work…

Q: Please give a short description of yourself and your work.

A:I started my curiosity for art at the age of 4. I have always loved shapes, color, textures, line and the expressiveness art allows you to do. I still work traditionally and like the feeling of the pastel in my hand, touching the paper and making marks.  I do some manipulation on the computer but clients are drawn to my work for the natural organic feel it has.

Q: What first piqued your interest in illustration?

A: While in college I started off with a fine art major and was drawn to the problem solving of illustration.

Q: What inspires your illustrations?

A: It depends on the project and what it is. My environment, the people in my life, nature, life experiences, and my faith.

Q: Whose work do you follow?

A: I have always admired Mary Grandpre and Gary Kelly in my illustration work. In my personal work, Georgia O’Keefe, Modigliani and Picasso.

Q: What are you working on now?

A: I am working on doing a series of  illustrations for a new hospice company.

Q: What work of yours are you most proud of?

A: I did a cookbook for Nestle.

CG: We’re sure Susan’s Composure work is running a close second to the Nestle cookbook. Full disclosure –  we’ve worked with Susan for many years. She’s a long-time favorite and very dear to us!)

Q: Do you have a favorite knick-knack in your studio?

A:Yes! A felted round ball with a smiley face on it. It brings me joy.

Q: Where can your work be found?

A: www. susan tolonen.com

Q: Anything else you’d like to share?

A: I truly put my heart and soul into every job no matter how big or small the job is.

It was a great honor to interview Susan. See you in the next interview!

Stephanie Marie Steinhauer