Working with Southern artists for more than two decades, gallery owner Susan Laney represents the outstanding talents of the area’s dynamic, and often underrepresented, contemporary art scene. Prior to opening Laney Contemporary in 2017, Laney was Director of the eponymous gallery of acclaimed photographer Jack Leigh. Laney has curated group and solo exhibitions for a number of galleries and museums including SCAD Museum of Art, and was curator of the visual arts exhibition for the Westobou Festival for three years. Laney advises private and corporate clients in developing or enhancing art collections. 

We caught up with Susan in the gallery this week in advance of our upcoming collaborative event celebrating Staud at Marmalade and Laney Contemporary's spring programming. 

How would you describe your personal style? 

Fluctuating between easy and fun, with a love of comfort, craft, and beautiful unexpected details. I do love a bright color but often choose black. Beyond clothing, my everyday aesthetic combines the essentials of art, good design, and furnishings that have a story.

Do you have any favorite designers at Marmalade?

Working with Marmalade on this collaboration is a delight, as I have always admired the inventive, modern look of STAUD. In these photographs I’m wearing STAUD – a dress from Marmalade and my own boots. Other favorites are Rachel Comey and some tiny boutique brands.

It's undeniable that Savannah has a thriving creative pulse. Was the city and its creative community a contributing factor in helping you build your Gallery into the destination it is today?

When I graduated from SCAD many of my friends were moving to bigger cities, especially New York. But I continued to be charmed and inspired by Savannah, and thought that if I stayed, I could build something. The gallery evolved from my experiences and collaborations which were rooted in Savannah’s creative community. 

Now, with our exhibitions and participation in international art fairs, we continue to bring diverse audiences together with our artists, fulfilling our vision to elevate the artistic voices of the region.

Give us some background on the current exhibitions at Laney Contemporary…

I have watched Marcus Kenney’s art and career develop since we were classmates together decades ago. “The Ball,” a series of collaged lithographs, is a treasure of a show. It is intimate in scale and invites discovery. Kenney’s aesthetic is always recognizable, yet his work continuously evolves and surprises his audience with new ways of seeing.  

This is Jeremiah Jossim’s first solo exhibition with Laney Contemporary. Jeremiah has recently gone through a period of uncertainty about his health, to create a metaphysical series of work that resonates with his journey. Jeremiah’s palettes and use of abstraction are captivating. We are thrilled to share this transcendent body of work. 

What are your favorite spots to get a drink in Savannah? Dinner?

We are spoiled with choices! I always love a cozy drink at Colleagues & Lovers and the diner bar at The Grey surrounded by some of our artist’s work. I still haven’t made table reservations at Lucia Pasta Bar because the service and conviviality at the bar are perfect. Late Air for wine and small plates, and late night bites at Savoy Society. Sixby is my go-to for breakfast and coffee. Fishbar, a new addition to the Starland scene, has fantastic seafood and an inviting patio. I’m really looking forward to the re-opening this spring of Strange Bird, a family favorite for a fun weekday dinner.

A couple of collaborations we currently have going bring it all together. Laney Contemporary frequently works with The Thompson Hotel to present artwork by local artists in their lobby. Grab a drink, watch the sunset at Bar Julian, and enjoy incredible artwork. We also currently have work up at Local 11ten, where I love to grab a seat at the bar for my favorite caesar salad and a cocktail.