A native of Portland, Oregon, I started as a fiber artist by learning how to use weaving, twining, netting and crochet as art forms. I continued studies in weaving and Art History in college while earning my degree in International Affairs.

Color and texture is what draws me to create, whether in textiles or beads. I am inspired by nature, historic costume, art history and things discovered in my travels around the world. I have found some of the most interesting and beautiful things in the less traveled places.

My home state provides abundant natural diversity and beauty. I am particularly drawn to the sea. I love mixing natural stones with beads and primarily work in bead embroidery as it feels like painting with beads. It lends itself to organic shapes and I like to incorporate layers of beads or stones to create texture and depth. I have been beading in some way, shape or form for 20 years.

My work may be found in my Etsy shop: SusanBortsDesigns

THIS ARTIST SPECIALIZES IN:

Functional, Non-Functional, Organic, Artwork, Jewelry, Bright, Colorful, Complex, Black, Blue, Brown, Ivory, Gold, Green, Grey, Indigo, Purple, Orange, Red, Silver, Turquoise, White, Yellow, Bead, Beads, Bead Embroidery, Bead weaving, Bead Stringing, PMC (Precious Metal Clay), Wire Work, Bead Art, Stones, Bracelet, Earrings, Embroidery, Necklace, Pendant