A Moment of Pause for Beauty
February 10, 2026
Artist Susan Hecht draws inspiration from the subtle, often unnoticed moments of daily life. Represented by East West Fine Art gallery, which is marking 25 years in Naples, Susan (SH) is interviewed by gallery owner Leeza Arkhangelskaya (LA). Their conversation offers insight into how art encourages viewers to slow down, reflect, and rediscover the beauty of our world.
LA: How does your artwork capture feelings of familiarity, nostalgia, and warmth?
SH: I enjoy painting ordinary moments that occur in everyone’s life. My hope is that my work helps people recognize something within themselves – whether it be a feeling of remembrance or a connection to their own experiences – Seeing reflections of themselves and their lives in my art. It’s all part of my mission – to appreciate the everyday beauty in the world around us.
LA: What are your favorite and least favorite aspects of being an artist?
SH: My favorite part about being an artist is exploration, discovery, and creativity. I love to lose myself in the moment. I can walk in my studio and be completely transported. Hours later, I can feel like something magical took place. Of course, that doesn’t always happen, but that creative groove feels like nothing else I’ve ever experienced. My least favorite part about being an artist is that I love cute clothes, and I cannot wear anything I like in the studio!
LA: How do you stay inspired?
SH: I actually do not always stay inspired. Picasso said, “Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working.” For me, it’s important to put in the time and get through the moments where I’m not feeling overly inspired. But it’s also important to take breaks as they can recharge creativity. I believe that once you begin to see like an artist, you’re always painting in your mind, continually honing your skills.
Susan Hectht’s artwork ca be viewed at East West Fine Art in Galleria Shoppes at Vanderbilt. 2359 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, #410, Naples, FL 34109. www.eastwestfineart.com – info@eastwestfineart.com.
