Leigh Pawling is a local artist who has been exhibiting her paintings throughout Pennsylvania and at her studio space in Kingston for 15 years. She has also done shows at the Grand Cayman Islands in the Caribbean. Pawling, 42, attended Dallas High School and received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Wittenberg University in Ohio. She also received a four year completion certificate from the Art Students League in New York City. Leigh lives in Kingston.

How did your passion for painting start? “My dad always tells the story about how I wanted to be an artist ever since I was 5-years old. I was always drawing and looking at art books of Van Gogh and the impressionists. My mom saw that I was different than my sisters and gave me the push that propelled me toward fulfilling my dream. She enrolled me at Sue Hand’s Imagery in Dallas and continued to direct me into the arts as I grew up.”

You mentioned the various schooling you had in regards to your passion. What was the motivation to opening your own art studio? “About 15 years ago, after college, I just wanted to find a space to develop my art and find my voice. I did not want to waitress. I wanted to have the ability to follow my dream and I was able to give private lessons and do commission work as well as taking part in shows at galleries.”

How would you describe the kind of painting that you do? “My art is emotive to a degree. I would say it is representational and often it has nature as the theme.”

Do you like to venture out into nature’s offerings? “I like to bike, swim and run. I enjoy going on hikes in the woods and walking with my dog, Eloise. I also enjoy attending various cultural events and other art exhibits when not trekking through the wilderness.”

You mentioned that you did a show at the Grand Cayman Islands. Is there somewhere else you would like to venture to outside of the United States? “I would love to visit Mallorca which is south of Marseilles in the Mediterranean. I have been to Machu Picchu and that was an incredible experience. The spirituality and culture there was so rooted.”

Do you have someone you admire greatly in your life or someone who has been very important to you? “Family is very important to me. The way my parents lived their life has always been influential. They always beat the drum of all the good that exists and the way they live in the moment has always been inspirational. I have two beautiful older sisters, Ramah and Robin, who are married to men I view as dear brothers. I have had the privilege of watching my six nieces grow into lovely young women.”

Is there any quote or saying that best represents the way you look at life? “Grain by grain we do our part, as best we can. We do our small part, and we leave the rest to trusting and receiving that amazing Grace, so freely given.”

Do you have a favorite book? “I really enjoyed ‘Pillars of the Earth’.”

How about a favorite food? “I love salads and bread.”

What types of music do you enjoy? “I guess you could call it adult alternative music. I like Brett Dennen, Natalie Merchant and Jack Johnson.”

What would you say has been the proudest moment in your life? “Sometimes I just pause and realize I am just grateful that I can do what I love. To have these moments or experiences allows me to encourage others. All those moments are very memorable.”

For more on this story go to:

http://www.timesleader.com/stories/Meet-Leigh-Pawling,222834