Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Artist Interview: Levi Leddy


What is your name:

Levi Leddy


Do you have a formal art education or are you a self taught artist:

I received my Associates Degree in Digital Imaging Technology from Eastfield College. I studied graphic design, 2D/3D design, art history, and took just about ever painting course available.


What is the style of your pieces:

I would call my style: Abstract / Surrealistic


What is the medium in which you work:

I work with acrylic paint. I incorporate some spray paint and found objects in my pieces on occasion.


What started you on your path as an artist:

I grew up loving art. I always loved to color, draw, and create things. When I was 4 years old, I visited Germany. While I was there, I got to visit with my Great Uncle and Great Aunt. They both were professional artists. My Great Uncle created Modern Art and my Great Aunt was into Impressionism. They had their own art studio where they created their work. I always pictured myself being an artist.


What is one of the most important things that art has brought to your life:

Art has brought me inner peace. It really is a stress reliever. While painting, I am able to zone out and focus all of my mind on my artwork. Even if I create something that is extremely complex, it still brings tranquility.


What is your favorite genre of art besides the one you work in:

I really love Renaissance Art. The paintings of this era really affected the artist and the community in which they resided.


Do you have art showings, and if so what are they typically like:

I have shown in many different settings. Some of these include: formal galleries, large industrial warehouses, retail spaces, galas, charity events, and festivals. In all of the settings, there is always a great group of people.


Do you have a certain set of clothes you make art in:

I usually just paint in my low cut blue jean shorts...just kidding (insert laugh track here). I just paint in comfortable shirts and shorts and use a laundry basket or an empty box as an aisle.


What has been the most frustrating part of being an artist?

I use bold, vivid colors in most of my paintings. I often hear comments from people that love my artwork and would purchase it, but it does not match their furniture. This is a bit frustrating sometimes. Art should be enjoyed as is, not according to couch colors. I understand the logic behind it though...I watch HGTV.


What is your favorite sandwich of all time:

I love sandwiches. I could eat a sandwich for lunch for the rest of my life and be happy. My favorite sandwich would have to be the "Angry Chicken Sandwich" from Angry Dog in Deep Ellum, TX.


Has this year brought about any changes in your work, and if so what are they:

In January, my second daughter Olivia was born. I am just now getting back to painting. I guess you could call it a sabbatical. So far this year, I have been working with extremely large paintings. I am going to create a black and white series titled "Desaturated". It will be a different take on my bold, colorful paintings. I am very interested to see the contrasting differences between the two series.


Who is your favorite artist alive or dead:

I am a huge fan of Rene Magritte. His work is very thought provoking. His intended goal for his work was to challenge observers' preconditioned perceptions of reality and force viewers to become hypersensitive to their surroundings.


What is the most moving piece of artwork that you have seen in person:

I really liked Andy Warhol's Electric Chair.


Do you have any animals, and what do they think of your work:

I have 2 boxers, a 6 year old Sable and a 1 year old Olaf. They are huge fans of my work. I think dogs are somewhat color blind, but they still love my work.


Do you have any upcoming exhibitions you would like to share with us:

I have a solo show @ De Frog Gallery in Houston, TX . The exhibition runs from September 9th - 30th. www.defrog-gallery.com


www.levileddy.com

levileddy@yahoo.com


If you are an artist and would like to be featured email sivy221@aol.com


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