Art & Life with Colleen Leach

Today we’d like to introduce you to Colleen Leach.

Colleen, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I started my art story at a very young age…my mom is a remarkable artist and I grew up watching her paint (in between raising triplet sisters:). I then picked back up painting several years back, feeding the calling inside of me to let my creative side out!

Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I intend for my art to tell a story, to make an impression by leaving an inspiring light. I have so many ideas and realize I am in my art journey – growing and learning every day. I knew the first time I picked up a paint brush several years ago, something was unleashed and let out of me…I have not had that feeling in a long time – I knew that I was in the right place, doing the right thing at the right time. I believe as if we all have a creative side that needs to be discovered… in really listening to your intuition – you will find yours. In doing this, I feel one’s soul is slowly opened up, a new realm of self is discovered…one that cannot be put in words – music, dance, art – we all have it inside of us…

I think about my art for a while prior to jumping in and painting. I try to push the envelope with textures, mediums and the surface I paint on. Right now, I’m really loving oils and charcoal – but love torn canvas and the raw edge it creates. My hope is that anyone who sees my art – that they will feel my art…be inspired. I strive for my work to be light, uplifting and spark curiosity. I think art should bring a bright light into any space and truly make you happy.

Do you think conditions are generally improving for artists? What more can cities and communities do to improve conditions for artists?
I feel as if artists have the opportunity like no other – is it easy, no… but worth the ride. There are long days, lonely frustrating days, but also those gracious days that come so easy… but it’s so worth the risk to be able to unleash the story inside of me and feel alive. I cannot imagine NOT creating art. I live just North of the city, in a town really thriving on art and trying to grow this link in the community. I’m honored, grateful and thrilled at the possibilities that art creates.

I would encourage an artist, regardless of the art – to start slow, don’t compare, don’t get mixed up in the hype…sadly with social media it’s so easy to feel as if you and your art is not enough, up to par – I choose to believe that we all can tell our own story, if it feels right, its exactly what it should be…your creative soul that is awake and alive. Never look back and don’t give up on something that could turn you into the person you are intended to be.

What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
Currently I am represented locally at Caroline Nix Gallery, Gainesville, GA. I am also in Athens at Metal + Petal as their solo artist till the end of August. Starting early August, I will be part of the Black & White Exhibit at Buckhead Art & Company in Atlanta, GA.

One can also find my work and learn more about me at my website at www.colleenleach.com, I do sell work often on my site. Please know that I support a local cause Sacred Roots, and donate all online sales to this amazing cause! One will find me on Instagram @colleen.leach.art

Contact Info:

• Website: www.colleenleach.com
• Phone: 7705333252
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: colleen.leach.art

Image Credit:
Alicia Beasley Photography

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