“My art is deeply inspired by the wild heartbeat of nature, where animals take on human-like stories and emotions in my mind,” says painter Mary Leslie. “Roaming the Rocky Mountains with my camera, I’m always ready for inspiration around the next canyon or peak. A jackrabbit darting through sagebrush, vibrant wildflowers, or clouds casting dramatic shadows on rocky cliffs—each moment fuels my work.”
Helloooo Ladies, oil on canvas, 60 x 48 in.
Game Face, oil on canvas, 20 x 16 in.
She continues, “My paintings blend these snapshots, sometimes images from talented photographers who generously share their craft, or even recently a striking stranger I convinced for a spontaneous photo shoot after a gallery show. When a scene sparks, I dream up ways to make it shine on canvas. I love infusing humor to keep things light and fun for me. Maybe it’s a quirky animal expression or a playful twist in the landscape’s story—those moments make me smile as I paint. My goal is to share that joy, inviting viewers to laugh and connect with the vibrant, untamed world I see.”
It Counts!, oil on canvas, 16 x 16 in.
The artist has a studio and gallery in Salida, Colorado, where she is readying work for a full slate of shows and events. Shows include Cowgirl Artists of America’s Women’s Work show at the A.R. Mitchell Museum, a show in September at her own gallery; Resonance, also at the A.R. Mitchell Museum in October, and the Young Guns show in Denver in December. —
Want to See More?
Mary Leslie Studio & Gallery
148B E. First Street, Salida, CO 81252
(404) 434-1851
www.marylesliestudio.com
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