Suzanne Leighton’s work is rooted in minimalist abstraction, exploring both the essence of landscapes and the emotional, meditative power of colour. Her paintings are deeply personal reflections—quiet yet expansive—drawing inspiration from the beauty, mystery, and internal journeys evoked by the natural world.

Having spent most of her life in Cape Town, Table Mountain serves as both a physical and emotional anchor in her practice. It has been a place of solace and adventure, forming the backdrop to moments of walking, climbing, swimming, joy, and grief. This profound connection to place informs her studio work, where painting becomes a similarly grounding and liberating experience. Within this space, the act of painting is approached as a form of medicine—meditative, playful, and transformative.

Mountains naturally emerge as recurring motifs in her work, though other landscapes—from sea to desert—also find expression. Through these compositions, Leighton conveys a personal interpretation of nature’s magnificence: its stillness, turbulence, and enduring presence.

Art has always been integral to her life. Raised by artist parents in a creatively rich environment, she was exposed early to artistic practice. Her mother worked as a painter and sculptor, while her father balanced careers in engineering and art, notably holding a solo sculpture exhibition at the Association for Visual Arts. Continuing this legacy is both meaningful and fulfilling.

Although she initially pursued civil engineering, Leighton later shifted toward complementary health practices, where the healing qualities of colour and creative expression became central to her work. Today, as both an artist and a wellness practitioner, she remains deeply engaged with the powerful impact of colour, form, and creativity on human wellbeing.