Born and raised in the Bay Area with the passion for art, music, and cycling. I use my creativity whenever I can. Whether it be painting, sewing, or hammering a nail or two. 

I have always had a desire to be an entrepreneur, but had so many things I enjoyed doing that I couldn't make up my mind…I get bored very easily.  I've always leaned towards painting as it was my stress reliever and something I actually feel I'm good at. Growing up, I loved to paint. I might have inherited painting art from my beloved Grandmother who also had the same love for art.

At the age of 15, I painted my first ”masterpiece”…an Orca whale jumping out of the water on my bedroom door. Much to my surprise and relief, instead of yelling at me, my sweet mom still to this day talks about entering the heavy 7 foot door into the arts and crafts section at the fair. Love you Mom! 

Now with almost 30 years of painting experience, it gives me great pleasure to help and encourage others to also bring out their imagination with paint.

The Stained Canvas was originally created in 2016 in my craft room here in Tracy. As I had plans to develop a business, I suddenly had a great offer as an art instructor at a local upscale paint and sip studio in Livermore.  I knew from the start that teaching  how to paint while having fun was the perfect job for me. It was my home away from home with a side of relaxation, friends, and a time to party!

As my four year anniversary there was coming up, I felt a deep calling to do something extraordinary. I wasn't sure at the time, but I knew it had to do with continuing to help others feel good about themselves and their abilities with art. I feel so lucky to have had time to learn more of the art skills and the friends I've met along the way, but my journey must continue.

With the unfortunate times of Covid-19 hitting the world hard after my last day at the studio, I found myself turning more towards art than ever before. I started with creating free step-by-step tutorial videos on how to paint. I quickly took a turn and put the paint brush down for a moment to sew face masks for others to help prevent the spread of the virus. This gave me a lot of time to ponder on more ideas and ways I can share my love of art with everyone. As weeks went by, I knew exactly what I wanted to do. With the help of family and friends…

The Stained Canvas was reborn. 

It is with great honor to be awarded the 2022 Entrepreneur of the Year with Tracy Chamber of Commerce. I want to thank God, my supportive family, friends, and community for the love and encouragement you all give. With hard work, dedication, and PASSION, you can make your dreams come true! You can do it!

It's been so awesome being a part of Downtown Tracy and I absolutely love our supportive community! 🥰

It doesn't take much to make me happy.  When I'm not painting, my other soul refreshers are riding my bike especially through the vineyards, hanging out at the beach, playing my guitar, and hanging out with family and friends.

💕Give me a brush and I'll paint. Give me coffee or wine and we're best friends. 💕

I am beyond blessed to have my family and friends who support me. It definitely takes a village and I would not be able to share this opportunity without you all. Thank you ❤️

~Suzy Q