Meet Susannah Foos

We recently connected with Susannah Foos and have shared our conversation below.

Susannah, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?

Confidence and self-esteem haven’t always come easily to me. In fact, they’ve been a lifelong work in progress. If I’m being honest, the journey started in a place of deep discomfort—a single moment etched in my memory when I was just 10 years old. A doctor, someone I was supposed to trust, looked at me and called me “chunky.” Even now, that word echoes in my mind, a stinging reminder of how a few careless words can shape a young girl’s perception of herself.

At the time, I was in middle school, a world that’s already brutal enough without added insecurities. I was the bigger girl, the loud one, the dramatic one—a bundle of energy that people often labeled as “annoying.” I felt like a black sheep, never quite fitting in. I hopped from one social group to another, hoping to find my place but always feeling like an outsider. Looking back, that chameleon-like ability to adapt was a skill in disguise, but back then, it felt like a curse. I wasn’t being myself—the bold, colorful, over-the-top person I truly am. Instead, I was shrinking, reshaping myself to fit into spaces that didn’t truly welcome me.

Everything changed in my sophomore year of high school when I enrolled in Barbizon Modeling and Acting School. It wasn’t about aspiring to be a famous model or actress—that dream faded quickly. But what I gained was far more valuable. They taught me how to carry myself with poise, how to embrace my appearance, and how to exude confidence. It was the first time I began to feel strong in my own skin. Around the same time, I started getting fitter and fell in love with the gym. Being active wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about feeling strong, capable, and joyful in my body. Sports had always been a part of my life, but now, they became a cornerstone of my confidence.

As I entered my twenties, the highs and lows of confidence became more apparent. Life has a way of challenging even the strongest foundations. Therapy was a game-changer—a lifeline, really. My therapist helped me unpack years of insecurities and gave me tools to rebuild. One habit that’s become a staple of my mornings is listening to a recording of myself reciting affirmations. While I work through my lengthy skincare routine, I repeat those words of encouragement to myself. It’s small, yes, but powerful. Over time, those affirmations have started to stick. Podcasts and audiobooks on self-help and deeper spiritual questions have also guided me toward a sense of peace and self-trust.

One of my most transformative moments came recently when I stepped into the role of host for Art Battle in Philadelphia. Hosting (IG @artbattlephiladelphia) combines so many of my favorite things: performing, connecting with people, and being my authentic, dramatic self. The first time I stood in front of the crowd, I was worried I’d be too much. But the feedback was overwhelming. People loved my energy, and their encouragement cemented something I’ve always known deep down: when I’m true to myself, I shine. Now, as the official host, I’ve found a new avenue to express myself while building connections in the Philly art community.

Building and maintaining confidence requires intentional habits. For me, it’s a mix of small daily rituals and bigger commitments. A good skincare routine, light makeup, and flattering clothes help me feel put-together. Staying active—whether through cardio, weight training, or yoga—keeps me grounded and strong. And then there’s consistency in my craft. When I first started drawing, I didn’t think I was any good. I was hesitant to share my work. But I sketched for just five minutes a day, consumed content from other artists, and kept at it. Slowly, my skills improved, and so did my confidence.

Of course, self-doubt is always lurking in the shadows. I’m lucky to have friends and family who pull me out of those funks. They’re my mirrors, reflecting back the best parts of me when I can’t see them myself. They’ll remind me, “Susannah, this isn’t you. Where is that confident girl we know? Let her shine!” And when I need a mental reset, I think about a lesson I learned from Pierce Brown’s “Red Rising” series: sometimes, you have to shift the paradigm and see challenges as opportunities to grow.

Confidence, for me, isn’t tied to external success. It’s about how I feel in my own skin, about the joy I find in the process of creating and living authentically. Even when I create something that isn’t perfect, if it brings me joy or helps me grow, it’s worth it. That’s where my confidence truly lies.

Do I still struggle? Absolutely. Confidence is a journey, not a destination. But I’ve learned to trust and believe in myself. My mom once told me during a particularly tough time, “Put on some lipstick; it will make you feel better.” At the time, I only had chapstick. But her point wasn’t lost on me. Sometimes, the smallest actions can spark a shift.

If you’re struggling with confidence, my advice is this: start small. Find one thing that makes you feel good and do it consistently. Build from there. It’s not about becoming someone else; it’s about becoming the truest version of yourself. And if my story shows anything, it’s that no matter where you start, confidence is something you can grow. It’s already within you. You just have to nurture it.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

Being an abstract acrylic artist is more than a title for me—it’s an identity, a passion, and, in many ways, a calling. It’s also the reason I’ve become an entrepreneur. After all, when you’re constantly creating, you need to find homes for all those pieces so you can make room for the new ones. My ultimate dream is to become a full-time artist, making a living from my work and inspiring creativity in others.

Why did I choose this path? To be honest, I think it chose me. Art has been a constant in my life, a source of joy and solace. They say to follow your passion, and for me, that’s always been art. My full-time job in advertising is just a stepping stone, fueling my journey toward my creative goals.

What makes my journey unique is my background in advertising and data analytics. This has given me a business-minded approach to my art, helping me understand how to connect with my audience. It’s not just about creating; it’s about ensuring the right people see your work. Social media, for instance, is a powerful tool but a challenging one to master. It’s a constant puzzle to balance content creation, strategy, and execution—but it’s all part of the process of sharing my vision.

My art is as varied as my interests, which are plenty (thank you, ADHD!). I create what speaks to me, and those bursts of inspiration often translate into colorful, bold, abstract pieces. One of my proudest moments as an artist was hosting my first solo art show. I was moving out of my old apartment and realized I had a four-day window before the space was handed over. With 60 canvases ready to go, I transformed the empty apartment into a gallery. Friends provided live music, and for three nights, the space came alive with art and community. I sold eight pieces and made a profit—a success that validated my decision to embrace this creative journey.

Another defining experience was joining Art Battle, a live competitive painting event where artists have just 20 minutes to create a piece, and the audience votes on the winner. My first time, I didn’t make it to the finals, but the second time, I was chosen as a “wild card” and made it to the final round. Now, I’m the official host of Art Battle Philadelphia, a role that allows me to blend my love for art and performance while connecting with amazing artists and art lovers in the city.

Of course, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Social media, in particular, has been a learning curve. Early on, I tried posting every day, which quickly led to burnout. But that experiment taught me what works and what doesn’t. Now, I’m taking a more sustainable approach, focusing on quality over quantity. The key, I’ve found, is to give yourself grace. Social media is just one part of the puzzle; real-life connections and experiences are just as important, if not more so.

Right now, I’m exploring new creative avenues. I’m working on a watercolor sketchbook as a wedding gift for friends who married in Siena, Italy. It’s my first time diving into watercolor, and it’s been a fascinating challenge to step outside my acrylic comfort zone. I’m also seeking opportunities to create larger works, like murals, and to showcase my paintings in local businesses. My closet full of art deserves fresh air and new eyes! Additionally, I’ve been dabbling in digital art and graphic design. I have a client in London who’s entrusted me with creating logos and branding materials for her business. Seeing her feedback and watching her brand grow has been incredibly fulfilling.

What drives me most is the impact I hope my art has on others. I want my work to inspire creativity. Maybe someone sees one of my paintings and decides to try their hand at painting, music, photography, or crafting. I’ve seen this happen with friends who, after engaging with my art, felt encouraged to share their own creations more openly. That’s what it’s all about—sparking a chain reaction of creativity.

If there’s one thing I want readers to know about me, it’s that my art is my way of connecting to the universe. It’s how I channel positive energy and give it back to the world. Even if no one liked my art, I’d still create it because the act of creating is what keeps me grounded, fulfilled, and alive.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Adaptability and perseverance have been two of the most important qualities in my journey as an artist. Not everyone will love my art, and I’ve learned to take constructive criticism as an opportunity to grow rather than a reason to wallow in self-pity. This mindset is especially important when it comes to social media, where feedback can be instant and unfiltered. Growth only happens when you’re willing to adapt and try new things, even if it’s hard. That’s where perseverance comes in. Being an artist is what brings me the most joy, and I know it’s what I’m meant to do. So why wouldn’t I pursue it with everything I have?

Another crucial skill has been learning to take my time and not rush the process. From creation to marketing to sales, wearing all the hats as a solo artist can be overwhelming. I’ve realized that rushing doesn’t lead to the success I desire. Instead, it’s about being intentional and allowing each step to unfold naturally. And, as hard as it is, I’ve had to remind myself not to put too much pressure on achieving everything right away. Life is busy—balancing a 9-to-5 job, maintaining a creative mindset, and managing the business side of things is no small feat. The truth is, there’s no rush. Slowing down, breathing, and enjoying the process has been a game-changer for me—though it’s definitely easier said than done.

From a business and advertising perspective, one of the best strategies I’ve adopted is mapping out my goals for the year. It might sound daunting, but breaking big goals into smaller, manageable actions makes it achievable. Write everything down and tackle it bit by bit. If you’re running ads, don’t rely solely on one platform. Diversify your efforts to avoid putting all your eggs in one basket. Advertising can get expensive, so planning ahead helps allocate your budget wisely. My work in advertising has taught me the value of testing strategies and analyzing data. Don’t hesitate to experiment, look at the analytics, and refine your approach. If you’re unsure about something, seek help—whether that’s asking ChatGPT, consulting a professional, or utilizing free resources. The insights you gain from these efforts will guide you toward your ideal audience.

For me, life is best lived when I slow down and savor the little things—painting while listening to my favorite songs, discovering a new audiobook, or tuning into a thought-provoking podcast. These moments ground me and remind me of who I am and what I love. To anyone reading this, I encourage you to take five minutes to listen to yourself. Start with a guided meditation if it helps, or play some calming music. Turn your phone on “Do Not Disturb” and just be present with your thoughts. Learning to be comfortable with yourself is a skill that will serve you in every part of life.

As an artist, I’ve found immense value in watching other people’s art content. It’s inspiring to see new techniques or concepts that spark ideas for my own work. If you’re like me, I recommend saving the posts or videos that resonate with you into a collection or folder. It’s a great way to revisit them later and stay inspired.

For those just starting their art journey, my advice is to take it slow. Carry a sketchbook wherever you go, and when you’re bored, draw instead of reaching for your phone. It’s a small habit, but it makes a big difference. You might even find that people approach you to talk about your art, which can build your confidence over time.

One book that has profoundly impacted me is Becoming Supernatural by Joe Dispenza. It’s not specifically about art, but it dives into shifting your mindset, trusting yourself, and embracing meditation as a tool for transformation. I also enjoy listening to high-frequency music that keeps me in a positive frame of mind. These practices aren’t directly art-related, but they’ve helped me feel more connected to myself and the world around me.

Of course, I’m still working on all of these things. This is my experience, and yours may be completely different. Take what resonates and leave the rest. The journey is uniquely yours, and that’s what makes it beautiful.

What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?

Family has always been at the center of my life, and my parents are two of my biggest supporters. They’ve encouraged me in everything I’ve pursued, especially my artwork. But what I admire most is their ability to balance unwavering support with accountability. They’ve taught me that nothing in life comes for free—if you want something, you have to work hard for it. That lesson has stayed with me, and I’ve seen it in action through their own lives and accomplishments.

Both of my parents served in the U.S. Military, and the discipline they gained from that experience shaped the way they raised me. They weren’t drill sergeants by any means, but they held me accountable for my actions and consistently pushed me to be my best. Through their kindness and resilience, they’ve shown me what it means to face life’s challenges with strength and grace.

One moment that deeply impacted me happened during a very low point in my life. In 2023, I fell into a severe depression after losing my job. I was terrified to tell them how lost I felt and how much of a disappointment I thought I was. That Christmas, I finally opened up to them at the dinner table, and their response was nothing short of life-changing. They reminded me that life throws challenges at us, but it’s how we choose to respond that defines our character. They assured me that losing my job wasn’t a reflection of my worth and that I could never disappoint them over something beyond my control. Their love was unconditional, and they even offered for me to move back home if I needed to.

They also encouraged me to prioritize self-care and to reconnect with the things that bring me joy, like painting and going to the gym. That Christmas was incredibly hard, but it brought us closer as a family. I realized that I didn’t have to be perfect for them—I just had to be myself. As a perfectionist, that was a liberating realization.

Over the years, my parents have started sharing more of their own hardships with me. It’s been eye-opening to see that they’re not perfect, and that’s okay. Like many children, I’ve always held my parents on a pedestal, but learning about their struggles has made me admire them even more. They’ve faced their own challenges and come through them stronger, and that’s been a powerful example for me.

One small but meaningful habit my dad instilled in me from a young age is to always make my bed in the morning. It’s a classic military habit, but his reasoning behind it has stuck with me: “Even if I didn’t do anything else today, at least I made my bed.” That small accomplishment at the start of the day sets a positive tone and makes me feel more grounded.

My entrepreneurial spirit also comes from my parents. My mom ran a successful OBGYN practice for several years, and my dad has owned multiple businesses. They’ve shown me what it takes to build something from the ground up. Artistically, they’ve always encouraged me to pursue my creative side. My mom, in particular, is incredibly talented, and her side of the family is filled with artists. I have vivid memories of sitting at restaurants with paper placemats and crayons, watching her sketch me and my brother. Her skill amazed me, and those moments inspired me to pick up my own crayons and start drawing. My grandmother was a botanical watercolorist, and my aunt and cousins are also gifted artists, each with their own unique styles.

At my core, I’m a family person. I love spending time with my parents, brother, cousins, aunts, and uncles. Their unconditional love and support remind me that I can do anything, and they’ll always be there to back me up. Whether it’s through their advice, their encouragement, or simply their presence, my family has shaped me into the person and artist I am today.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://fooartz.mayhem.my/
• Instagram: @Foo_Artz or @zuzoof
• Other: HUG Profile – https://thehug.xyz/artists/Foo_artz
  BlueSky @zuzoof.bsky.social
  RedNote @zuzoof

Image Credits

📸 – @black_fyre_photos