Diane Leon, an abstract and mixed media collage artist, was born in the vibrant city of New York. Her artistic journey has been marked by a profound exploration of emotions and memories through the medium of abstraction. Leon’s work is a testament to her belief that color is a powerful visual language that allows her to express herself freely.
Her artistic process is an emotional rather than an intellectual one. She begins each painting with no preconceived idea, allowing the paint and color to guide her. As the work progresses, it takes on a life of its own, and Leon knows it is finished only when it ‘feels’ right to her. She prefers working on intimate-sized paper or canvas, as it gives her the spontaneity to express her emotions in the moment.
Leon’s artistic journey has been enriched by her academic background. She is an adjunct associate professor of arts at the New York University School of Professional Studies, where she teaches in the Division of Applied Undergraduate Studies.
One of Leon’s works, “Una Noche Espanola” (A Spanish Night), is an acrylic and mixed media painting on yupo paper measuring 11×14 inches. The piece is a vibrant exploration of a Spanish night, rendered in black, ochre, pink, red, white, and orange. Leon’s bold handling of paint and collage elements brings the night to life with drama, reflecting her belief that she is most creative during the night.
Diane Leon’s abstract art transcends mere visual representation; it is a conduit for her emotions and memories. Her intuitive process, devoid of preconceived notions, allows her to create vibrant, dynamic works that capture the essence of her experiences. Through bold colors and expressive forms, she communicates her innermost thoughts and feelings, inviting viewers to share in her journey. As an adjunct associate professor at NYU, she not only creates art but also imparts her knowledge and passion for the arts to her students.
