Steve Leal

Born in Venice California, I have been painting for as long as I can remember. Born of Mexican immigrant parent’s Jose and Maria Leal, I was inspired at a very young age by my fathers leather work. I watched as my father drew scroll designs and paisley motifs ,and then carved these designs into leather, just as his own father had taught him in the old days in making saddles. It was these vivid designs ,reminiscent of art deco and art nouveau, that would later develop in Leal’s work.

As I got older , I was inspired by artist’s ,such as, maxfield parrish, Mucha, Icart, and Erte’.

His interest in Fashion design, prompted him to enroll at FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising).
While attending school , his art work was catching the eyes of many. He decided to have a show at 19 at “Self Help Graphics” Gallery. A non profit gallery that helps up and coming minority artist’s
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At the age of 15, I got published by Edward Weston graphics in 1983 at the age of 21. I soon had posters selling worldwide. I went on to have many limited editions , selling around the world . leading to many one man shows in galleries internationally. After several years in gallery showings , I felt I needed to take a break from the industry. In ...

FIDM
After speaking to one of the art design school teachers about going to art school. He reviewed my work and suggested I consider not going, since he felt I needed what it takes.

I am entirely self taught.

List coming soon