Susan Handau

I am an abstract painter expressing my work by exploring the relationship between nature and our environment. Using dialogue between the two can be my best source of inspiration. The tactility of multiple textures and building of layers, are the backbones of my pieces.
The severity of the elements can age and weather and create the most interesting designs. The distressed look of patina on metal and dilapidating walls intrigues me by
their abstract surfaces and patterns. These textures and layers give depth and dimension to my paintings and are common elements in all my series.
I currently live and work in Reno, Nevada

I completed a BA in Art History at the University of Nevada, Reno in 1997. In 2000, I spent a wonderful year touring through Europe expanding my art history knowledge.

In 2022 and 2023, Handau was part of the "Heart of Reno", which exhibited at the Reno Tahoe International Art Show. Last winter, she was part of "Brush's with Greatness" at Reno International Airport through Sierra Arts Foundation, Reno, Nevada. In Fall of 2021, I was part of a group show, "Led by Vision" at Sierra Arts Foundation, Reno, Nevada. Recently, I was featured on PBS "ARTEFFECTS", Season 6/Episode 614. I was part of a 2019 group show at The Annex Gallery in Reno, Nevada. In 2018, I was privileged to be part of a group show, “Landscapes of Nevada” at Nevada Fine Arts Gallery in Reno, Nevada. I was included in the Hawai'i Nei 2016 Exhibition at Wailoa Center in Hilo, Hawaii. In 2016, I was featured at McKinley Galleries East in Reno, Nevada. I also participated in the 2016 "Doors to Recovery" art project. My work was exhibited in the 2016 Spring Show at Post Gallery and the Van Bokkelen Gallery at St. Mary's Art Center in Virginia City, Nevada.