Leonard Gonzales

Leonard’s artistic style is defined by a tactile, highly textured approach, frequently utilizing impasto techniques and mixed-media collage. By layering thick, deliberate strokes of acrylic paint alongside collage elements, he builds physical dimension directly onto the canvas. This layered technique beautifully mirrors his two major painting themes: sweeping landscapes and bold abstract expressionism. Whether capturing the rugged horizon of the desert or diving into the fluid, raw emotion of pure abstraction, Leonard invites viewers to experience art not just visually, but physically through depth and texture.

This intuitive mastery of scale and space was early on influenced by his hands-on work designing and constructing theater backdrops for public school productions—a creative outlet that ran parallel to a distinguished career in education. Before dedicating himself fully to the studio, Leonard lived a colorful life as an international educator. After earning a bachelor's and master’s degree in education from New Mexico State University, his curiosity took him across the globe to teach in Department of Defense schools in South Korea, Germany, and England, as well as within New Mexico public school systems.

Deeply invested in...

Self-taught and well traveled emerging acrylic artist

Attend workshops exploring various acrylic painting techniques and artists.

BS and MA from New Mexico State University in Education

MA from Walden University in Literacy

Taught for over 40 years in New Mexico and Department of Defense Schools in South Korea, Germany and England.