Candace Leslie
This use of gritty, gnarled texture and monochromatic scenes can be attributed to the growth I have seen through my perspective, ever-present curiosity and experimentation. My work evokes scenes of light, liveliness and I strive to showcase the beauty, brilliance and value of black people.
Biography
Candace Leslie is a visual artist who currently works in oils and collage. Born and raised in Columbus, GA, she developed a strong appreciation for nature. Ever experimenting with materials, she is inspired by vibrant colors, gritty, gnarled texture, symbiotic relationships and the manifold forms of blackness. Candace is based in Inwood, New York.
Artist Statement
My name is Candace Leslie and I am a visual artist currently working in oils, gouache and collage. My work explores the symbiotic nature of relationships between people and within nature (such as braiding another person’s hair). Experimenting with monotonal color schemes, my work also explores the manifold forms of blackness. From the onset I think about what my viewers will see behind the movement. Each layer in the piece has the aim of turning into a conveyor belt for the eye. I manipulate vibrant colors and visually tangible items to capture the attention of the viewer. Experiencing a lack of materials led me to develop a technique of combining dried paint with fresh paint to turn flat surfaces into rough, fertile landscapes that move the eye. This use of gritty, gnarled texture and monochromatic scenes can be attributed to the growth I have seen through my perspective, ever-present curiosity and experimentation. My work evokes scenes of light, liveliness and I strive to showcase the beauty, brilliance and value of black people. Influences that I draw from include Fauvism, Romare Bearden, Kehinde Wiley and symbols of light and liberation. Although I’ve attended a painting class at The Art Students League of New York, I am mainly a self-taught painter. Born and raised in Columbus, GA, I am currently based in Inwood, New York.
Artist Gallery
