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Born in Worcester, Massachusetts, Susan was raised by two creative parents who encouraged the pursuit of an art career. Growing up in Avon Connecticut, a favorite part of her growing years was drawing and painting.
Susan attended Central Connecticut State University, majoring in math and psychology. For many years she taught Special Education in Brookline and Waltham, Massachusetts. Always with sketchbook and pencil close by, the reality of being a fine artist seemed far reached. But it wasn’t. Susan’s twin sister Sandra , encouraged her to look for a means to start studying art more seriously. She started with evening courses at the Boston School of Fine Art. Later studying with Joshua Graham and Dorothy Lepler, they would become influential in teaching Susan discipline, observation, and control. Susan continued her studies at the Scottsdale Artist School with world renowned instructors including Betty
Patt Gatliff ( Forensic Facial Reconstruction), noted artists Rosalind Cook and Tuck Langland, and many others.
The Littlest Ballet Company LLC was formed in 1982. Susan debuted her sculptures and dolls in New York City at the International Toy Fair. She was instantly recognized for her outstanding work and awarded “Doll of The Year” for her sculpture of Jeanne. As well Susan was offered a position at Hasbro Toys in Pawtucket Rhode Island as senior designer and contributed greatly to the growth of the doll design department.
Susan soon began creating sculptures of babies making it necessary to incorporate the Susan Wakeen Doll Company Inc. For over 25 years Susan was recognized by her peers and collectors as one of the top artist in her field being honored with more than 48 nominations and awards in the industry for “Doll of the Year” and “The Award of Excellence.” She traveled to ltaly, China and Spain to perfect her artistry.
Susan was recently awarded First Place at the international Portait Conference in Atlanta Georgia for her sculpture of “Carla”
Susan’s sensitivity and style expressed in clays and beautiful bronzes are currently in the homes of collectors and museums throughout the world. Susan lives in Litchfield Connecticut with husband Biil and son, Kenny. She has a charming country studio where she teaches and sculpts.
“I have felt it important to teach and carry forward aII that I been fortunate to be taught. Although I will always consider myself a student, my studio is a grounding place, a place to realize how important it is to feel, and not take for granted the gift of having a passion and being able to share, so that others may explore their passion”