Art Story: February artist in residence, Leah Leventeris

Introducing our February Art Story Artist in Residence...

Leah Leventeris

Painting for me is an escape from reality, I can completely lose myself in the process of creating art.

It is my belief that anyone can learn to draw or paint, just as we are taught to write. With the right instruction, inspiration and will, you can learn to create from site or imagination.

After many years in the fashion industry, I decided to make a change in my life and go back and study Visual Arts with the intent to be able to share this joy of creating with others through teaching. I cannot express how valuable this decision was. It was my chance to show my children and peers that it is never too late to make significant changes and educate and develop yourself further.

In my artwork I have always tried to capture emotion. To freeze a moment in time. Whether it be the mood of a storm brewing in a seascape, or the thoughts of the person captured in a portrait. It was never enough for me to copy a picture or place but to offer a translation of how I viewed them and to tell their story.

My medium of choice is oils on canvas or board, although I do enjoy dabbling in new mediums and creative ventures from time to time.

In my latest work I have enjoyed taking the time to just sit and recreate some of South Australia’s magnificent local beaches along with its visitors that I am so blessed to live near.