BY SANDY BERTRAM
The West Volusia Artists are highlighting Leanne Lowman as our September Artist of the Month.
Lowman’s acrylic piece is titled Look Up DeLand. The purpose of this work of art is to call attention to the beautiful historic architectural character of the rooflines in the Downtown area of DeLand, where you can see three different periods of classical development.
Lowman’s work will be on display during the month of September at the Wayne G. Sanborn Activity Center, 815 S. Alabama Ave. in DeLand.
Lowman has lived in New York City, Georgia, Virginia and South Carolina. She and her husband traveled on their boat for 15 years before settling in DeLand in 2019. Her travels to the Bahamas and the Caribbean allowed her many opportunities for painting.
Lowman’s creative spirit was nurtured by her mentor and friend Barbara Mueller, who lived on St. Simons Island, Georgia, and Lowman also attended the Scottsdale Artists’ School and took classes at the Artists’ Workshop of New Smyrna Beach.
Lowman also studied with professional artist Marta Crawford. As a forever student, she has enjoyed lessons online, as well as DVDs, books, and travel workshops over the past 13 years. She feels that “each work of art is another creative adventure.”
Lowman has exhibited her work in art centers, but not in art shows. She prefers selling her art through gift shops, restaurants and online. Her work is displayed in places all over the world.
Lowman’s favorite style is “realism with expression.”
“I like to take artistic license in rearranging subjects and colors,” she said.
Her encouraging words are, “Don’t compare your art to others. Have an open mind to styles, techniques, mediums, and be willing to experiment. Painting should be fun.”
Lowman discovered West Volusia Artists when she was invited to a meeting by a friend. It fueled her feelings about “always looking for opportunities to learn.”
The club meets 9 a.m.-noon on the first and third Friday of each month from September through May at the Wayne G. Sanborn Activity Center. Group activities include plein air events, field trips, art demos and monthly art challenges. Artists of all levels and abilities are welcome.
For more information, call club President Melinda Ellis Cummings at 386-846-3330.
