Hello, I’m Suzanne Hughes, abstract painter.
I believe stillness is the key to feeling grounded in these times of constant noise and distractions.
Like Rumi says, “the quieter you become, the more you are able to hear.”
And if you don’t intentionally create the time and space to become quiet, you won’t receive the gifts your intuition is waiting to give you.
In a world that’s overscheduled, I seek to evoke serenity through my paintings, so you and I can feel rooted, whole, and in the present moment. As I lay down layer upon layer of paint marks and textures, I create dreamy landscape-like abstracts that give you space to quiet down, breathe, and simply be.
Step into my Ft. Lauderdale studio, and you’ll find yourself in an artist’s paradise that’s surprisingly clutter-free.
Works in progress await their turn at my easel…
…each deserving of careful consideration…
…and given the time to emerge as tranquil abstract masterpieces beating with understated energy for you to discover.
I grew up in the UK and have lived in different parts of the world before eventually settling in the United States to raise my children.
I’ve been on a long path toward becoming the artist I am today. It took me years to finally pick up a paintbrush, but once I did, it felt right, and I haven’t stopped.
Creativity has always been part of my life—whether I’m cooking for family and friends or making a home—but painting made it clear:
This is what I’m meant to do.
When I paint, I often begin with a few bold layers and expressive marks—an energetic starting point that lets me loosen up and find my way into the work. But as the painting evolves, intuition takes the lead. The colors soften, the palette quiets, and the whole piece shifts into something calmer and more grounded. Soft neutrals, gentle blues, and subtle coastal tones begin to take over, reflecting the peace and clarity I feel as I move through the process.
I’ve realized over time that this rhythm mirrors who I am. Outwardly, I’m steady, calm, and self-contained—but my inner world is always moving, vivid, and electric. My paintings follow that same path: they may settle into quiet, spacious horizons, but they’re built on layers of energy, emotion, and instinct hidden just beneath the surface.
This transition—from vibrant beginnings to soft, open stillness—is at the heart of my practice. What starts with movement gradually becomes a place of light and space, shaped by the coastal landscapes I’ve carried with me from the UK to Singapore to Florida. It’s why my work leans toward minimalist seascapes, serene horizons, and calming abstract coastal art.
Each piece holds a moment of quiet that I hope brings a sense of calm into anyone’s home.
In the beginning, I couldn’t understand why my work tended to be gray and neutral. It was only after spending time alone on the UK coast, that I was able to learn why. Driving down into Devon in southwest England made me feel like I was driving into one of my paintings.
I’d been feeling homesick for years, and my subconscious allowed me to bring a bit of those familiar vibes–in all their foggy coastal glory–to my life via my art.
Noteworthy Mentions
First place Artists Network 38th annual art competition
You deserve a breath of fresh air.
Come explore the gallery or if you’re local to Ft. Lauderdale, make an appointment to see available paintings in person.
We can’t stop looking at your artistry. You have made our lives and our home, warmer, richer and with more soul than before your we welcomed your creative genius into our home and our lives. Thank you for giving us the opportunity and privilege to immerse ourselves in the kindness and hopefulness that you are, in our everyday.