Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/980318
SiG MT 23 Up close portion of: "A Legacy Begins" Oil on Copper 36" x 24" For full view of painting go to: www.kimrandleas.com A year aer she began painting she began to show her art in exhibitions and began turning heads and connecting with hearts for her beautifully tender portrayals of Native Americans and pioneers; winning the "People's Choice" at the Art of the West – High Desert Museum; being featured as the "Artist to Watch" in the Southwest Art Magazine in 2017 and winning Signature Montana's "Most Distinguished Body of Work" award at the Out West Show in Great Falls in 2018. She has found her niche in figurative painting. e honesty and warmth of her oil paintings reflects her commitment to honor her subjects and to tell their story whether it be a Native American woman or a cowboy on his horse. She says, "I want to respect the people I paint." She was aracted to the Native American people's deeper connection with the planet and nature. When her closest friend and cousin married a Native man she observed and admired the way they live in today's world while still honoring and incorporating native traditions. As an ancestor of Oregon homesteaders she also feels a deep connection to the spirit of the old west as well as to today's farmers and caleman who embrace their work passionately as a total lifestyle. Her process usually begins with outdoor outings and photo shoots in the style of a photojournalist – waiting for the magic to happen rather than posing or pushing something into happening. She says, "It is more about a feeling…it is about their spirit and not necessarily how they look." When she sees her subject relax she watches a light flash on – and it is that essence that she wants to capture. She thinks emotion is what connects others to a painting.