Chicago-based artist Sue Shanahan is best known for her portraits that capture the essence of her subjects on canvas. Artwork for Disney World, illustrations for Cricket magazine, limited edition prints, greeting cards, Betsy McCall paper dolls for McCalls and children's books have brought her work into an ever widening circle of recognition. For three years Sue was given the honor of designing and illustrating the Illinois State Library's "Family Reading Night" campaign poster.  Her work even found its way into the White House where her portrait of Chelsea Clinton hung in the former First Lady's private study.  In a note to the artist, Hillary Rodham Clinton wrote, "I have your Chelsea drawing - my angel - in my private study where I see it every day. It captures her spirit!"

Oprah Winfrey was the subject of a portrait drawn by Sue. In explaining the design the artist says, "Oprah is portrayed as Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz. Glinda the Good Witch is telling her, 'You've always had it, my dear. You've always had the power.' Oprah loves this quote; she finds it very meaningful to her life." Oprah also loves the portrait. She purchased it for her private collection and had Sue as a guest on her "Favorite Things" show. In a letter to the artist she wrote; "Thank you so much for the portrait 'You've Always Had the Power,' I can't tell you how much I love it!"

Browse this site to see examples of Sue's work, to purchase books and framed prints and contact her to create a portrait for a loved one.