In this episode of Inside the Frame, host Dave Petty invites abstract painter Susan Lefevre into the studio for an in-depth conversation that uncovers the passion, evolution, and introspection that have shaped her artistic path. From experimenting with unconventional materials to finding support in mentorship and global artist communities, Susan shares a heartfelt look at what it means to create art that is both personal and connected.

A Journey Rooted in Curiosity and Experimentation

Susan’s path into abstract painting has been anything but linear. Trained in oil painting and deeply influenced by Asian calligraphy and spiritual symbolism, her current work reflects years of exploration. In their discussion, Susan reveals how she has been moving beyond traditional canvases, painting on materials like plexiglass and aluminum. These unique surfaces challenge her to adapt her methods—often painting on both sides, discovering new layers, and embracing the unpredictability of her medium.

“There’s a sense of mystery to it,” she tells Dave. “Sometimes the crosses or symbols just appear. I don’t plan them, but they become part of the story.” Her work often blends minimalism and gesture, balancing control with spontaneity—a tension that defines much of abstract expression.

Mentorship That Transforms the Creative Process

A turning point in Susan’s recent development has been her ongoing mentorship with Bernd Haussmann, a German-born artist and philosopher. Their weekly Zoom sessions go beyond the technical aspects of art—they’re spiritual, emotional, and profoundly philosophical. Susan describes how these meetings give her structure, feedback, and the courage to experiment with intention.

“He’s like a therapist and a teacher,” she says. “We talk about fear, growth, and the meaning behind the work. It’s not just what’s on the canvas, but why you’re making it.”

This mentorship, especially in a post-pandemic world, has helped Susan stay grounded in her creative discipline and inspired her to continue evolving, even as she navigates new techniques and materials.

Art as a Lifelong Practice and Dialogue

Susan’s creative life is rich with influences and relationships. Having worked as a docent at the Duxbury Art Complex and exhibited widely across Cape Cod and the South Shore, she speaks to the importance of staying connected to local communities. Although she has recently stepped back from submitting to juried shows due to the complexities of digital entry systems, her voice and work remain deeply rooted in the South Shore arts scene.

Throughout their conversation, Dave and Susan discuss the communal nature of art—how feedback, collaboration, and shared experiences can elevate an artist’s work. Susan is also active in Facebook groups dedicated to abstract and experimental art, receiving and giving feedback that bridges geographic boundaries and fuels artistic growth.

Family, Legacy, and Home Gallery Moments

For Susan, art is not just a practice—it’s a part of life. Her husband, proud of her decades of work, created a gallery space in their home to showcase her pieces. When guests visit, they are immersed in her artistic world. She also finds joy in seeing her grandchildren interact with her paintings, adding to the sense that her work will leave a legacy not just on walls, but in the lives of those closest to her.

Her reflections also touch on the challenges and delights of maintaining a creative life over the long term. “You reach a certain point,” she says, “where you start thinking about what you want to leave behind—not just the art itself, but the stories and the meaning behind it.”

A Meaningful Connection with Frame Center

Throughout the episode, Susan expresses her deep appreciation for Frame Center, not just as a framing shop, but as a creative partner that genuinely supports artists. She praises their showroom for giving her work space to breathe and be appreciated, especially her plexiglass pieces, which benefit from expert handling and thoughtful presentation.

“Frame Center doesn’t just frame your work—they elevate it,” Susan notes. “It’s rare to find a place that makes artists feel so valued.”

In many ways, Susan’s story mirrors the mission of Inside the Frame—to celebrate the artists who enrich the South Shore with their creativity, and to foster a sense of connection across the local arts ecosystem. Her journey is one of curiosity, resilience, and a deep-rooted love for the creative process.

Whether you’re an artist, art lover, or simply someone drawn to stories of purpose and transformation, this episode offers rich insight into how art can shape—and be shaped by—the communities we live in.