Shanahan is an artist best known for creating portraits and illustrations that capture the essence of her subject's soul on canvas. In addition to contributing work to various magazines and children's books, she has been commissioned by such clients as Walt Disney World, the State of Illinois, and Cricket magazine. Oprah Winfrey has purchased her work for her private collection and has featured her as guest on her show. Sue's work has found its way into the White House, where her portrait of Chelsea Clinton hung in the former First Lady's study.