Sue Zimmermann: Renowned Lake Charles Watercolorist Inspired by Nature and History

Southwest Louisiana teems with creative talent, where local artists draw inspiration from the region's diverse flora and fauna, vibrant landscapes, and rich historical remnants. Sue Zimmermann, a celebrated Lake Charles watercolorist, channels her creativity into nature's beauty, charming old buildings, and the magical play of sunlight on everyday scenes. “I’ve always painted what draws me in,” she shares. “I see it, I love it, and I want to capture it to share with others.”

Artistic from a young age, Zimmermann honed her skills in junior and senior high school classes and dominated the Cal-Cam Fair with first-place wins. Yet, eyeing a stable career, she majored in home economics at McNeese State University instead of pursuing art professionally.

In the mid-1970s, after marrying, she left the workforce and soon felt restless. Joining a neighbor's weekly oil painting class reignited her passion. Five years later, discovering her instructor's watercolors, she declared, “That’s what I want to do!”

Balancing motherhood with four sons, she attended weekly art classes for 15 years—her sole painting time. When her youngest started school, she returned to work full-time and paused painting for six years. The creative void was undeniable. “I realized creativity is what matters most to me,” she reflects. Shifting to part-time work, she resumed painting at home, self-studying techniques from books. “I knew I had a talent I was neglecting—a gift I needed to use.”

Now a full-circle artist, Zimmermann teaches watercolor classes through the Associated Louisiana Artists at Gallery by the Lake. “It’s incredibly rewarding,” she says. “I learn from my students as they progress—retired women finally pursuing their creative passions.”

Her accolades include multiple awards, but the 2011 Lake Charles Mayor’s Artist of the Year honor resonates deepest. “It affirmed me as a real artist.”

Find her work at southwest Louisiana festivals. As an Artisans' Gallery member, she exhibits at Lake Charles’ Spring Art Walk in April, Gallery Promenade in September, Christmas Sale and Art Show at Gallery by the Lake (December 3, 5-9 p.m.), and Holiday Market at Central School (December 11-13).

Year-round, view paintings and prints at The Frame House (1640 Ryan St.), Louisiana Market (2710 Hodges St.), Lake Charles, or online at suezimmermann.com.