Inspired by the lush countryside around her, Leanne Fink creates visually dynamic paintings filled with vivid color. Visit her website to see more of her art.
Artists are unique in that we are willing to bare our souls to the world through visual expression. As for me, I focus on creating work that calms, heals or uplifts. One of my primary goals is to show my art to as many people as possible to make this connection.
My roots have always been in art. From early childhood, I was obsessed with drawing and painting. I sketched portraits from magazines for hours on end and painted with oils. Predictably, I pursued a degree in art. Soon after graduation, I became a graphic artist in New York. It wasn’t long before I started my own advertising agency. The years passed, and I grew tired of the advertising and marketing hoopla.
I went back to school for a doctorate in chiropractic. Although that seems like a total 180, it required a great deal of creative thinking.
All along I kept my hand in some form of art, teaching my children how to paint, taking commissions or donating murals to non-profits. Making the decision to retire early, I have returned to painting full time.
Every day in the studio is a gift. I practice what I teach my students—the process needs to be enjoyable. I paint with oils on linen and textured canvas using a vibrant color palette. While I will always love rendering portraits, this new chapter in art has awakened a desire in me to paint landscapes.
And it is no wonder because my sources of inspiration are endless. I live in a beautiful place outside of Washington D. C.’s suburban sprawl. Horse farms, vineyards and historic stone properties surround me. I am in constant awe of our breathtaking dramatic sunsets.
There are times when I paint from a lingering memory but, mostly, I work from photographs. Friends send me their cell phone snapshots from all over the world to turn into works of art. The photos aren’t always perfect (to say the least). As crazy as this sounds, that’s what makes the process wonderful and the final product special. I also pursue concepts that come straight out of my inner world of thoughts and dreams.
As an instructor, I have revisited the stories and techniques of many master artists, particularly those of the impressionist through the avant garde eras. They inspire me to be the willow and experiment with a different method or tool in creating my “masterpieces.”
My art odyssey includes exploring brush, knife, finger, sculpting tools, gels, modeling paste, cold wax and encaustic. Even if the result is not the next masterpiece, there is always something to be learned.
Art is for everyone! Its therapeutic value exists both in the viewing and the creating. It is a thrill to be able to make my contribution.
Artist Leanne Fink invites you to follow her on Instagram and Facebook.
I really appreciate the art works and the thoughts expressed by Artist Leanne Fink, surfaced on today’s Featured Artists column of ArtsyShark website. Thanks for the same.
Further, as a professional artist working in the field for the past 5 decades, I view the art works of the artist Leanne Fink as excellent depictions in theme, composition,texture and bold color treatment. The colors used are quite pleasing to the viewer. While I thank the ArtsyShark to have included her as a Featured Artist, I wish Leanne Fink all success in her future endeavors.
Thank you so much for your comment and words of encouragement. I love color! I use combinations that speak to my heart as an artist, hoping my viewer will feel it, too.