Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Leigh Pursley. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Leigh, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

My current series, Lean into the Magic, features 33 paintings inspired by my outdoor treks and adventures. Each piece captures the blend of emotions and experiences from my backpacking journeys. The collection spans diverse landscapes, from the majestic Himalayas to the rugged terrain of the West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island, and includes scenes from the Pinhoti Trail, Appalachian Trail, and Sandia Mountains.
The series derives its name from a mantra that guided me while hiking to Everest Base Camp: “Lean into the discomfort and challenges of life to uncover its magic.” This philosophy, which I embraced with each difficult and uncertain step, is reflected in the vibrant and evocative nature of these paintings.

Tell us the backstory so we understand circumstances/context and why it’s meaningful to you?

My deep appreciation for the outdoors and nature has been a defining aspect of my life. Almost a decade ago, my cousin introduced me to backpacking, and I instantly fell in love with the experience. There’s something profoundly remarkable about being in nature and relying solely on oneself for survival and safety.
Lean into the Magic is especially meaningful to me, not only because of its inspirational sources but also due to the personal journey behind it. At 25, I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia, which led to a period of depression and limited my ability to engage in the activities that once inspired me. I found solace and renewal in nature, particularly through hiking and backpacking.
These experiences have profoundly influenced my art, allowing me to capture the vibrant colors of sunrises, the textures of forests, and the dynamic play of light. This series reflects themes of growth and resilience, embodying my mantra from the journey to Everest Base Camp: embracing discomfort can lead to transformative magic.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

About Me and My Art
My name is Leigh Pursley, a freelance artist based in Atlanta with roots in Augusta, GA. I specialize in acrylic and mixed media art and am currently pursuing a degree in art therapy. My journey as an artist began with a deep-seated passion for creating, which was nurtured through years of art classes and personal exploration.
How I Got Here
Art has always been an integral part of my life. During my school years, I received recognition for my artistic talents, which fueled my enthusiasm for painting. I pursued an art major at Auburn University, where I delved into various techniques and art history. After college, I spent considerable time refining my style, experimenting with different textures and methods, from the unconventional use of hairspray and feathers to more traditional approaches.
My career began to take shape when family and friends commissioned pieces from me, leading to my first solo art show in February 2016 at Ali Roberts Salon. My body of work includes diverse series, landscapes, and commissioned paintings, with a focus on capturing unique perspectives and emotions.
In 2018, I discovered a profound joy in teaching art to children. This experience solidified my decision to pursue art therapy, where I aim to support children, especially those on the spectrum or facing developmental challenges, through creative expression.
What I Offer
• Collections of Paintings: Explore a range of original works, each with its own story and style.
• Murals: Custom-designed murals to enhance any space.
• Commissioned Pieces: Personalized artwork tailored to your vision.
• Private Art Lessons: Individual and group sessions for all ages and skill levels.
• Workshops: Seasonal impressionistic abstract painting classes.
• Art Shows: Upcoming immersive exhibit Lean into the Magic at Old Smyrna Firehouse on September 21, 2024.
• Exhibits: Explore Exhibit at the Smyrna Community Center from June to September 2024.
What Sets Me Apart
My artistic journey is marked by a unique style that I’ve developed over years of exploration and experimentation. Each painting involves multiple layers—often 50 to 100—where my instinctual and impulsive use of color creates vibrant contrasts and dynamic movements. I utilize unconventional tools, such as feathers and my own hands, to enhance the texture and depth of my work. Music profoundly influences my creative process, and my physical movement, from dancing to swaying, directly impacts the flow of paint on the canvas.
Moreover, I do not produce prints; each piece is a one-of-a-kind creation. My commitment to ongoing learning and my desire to support children through art therapy further distinguish my work.
What I’m Most Proud Of
I take immense pride in my resilience and unwavering commitment to living life fully, despite facing significant challenges like fibromyalgia, depression, and anxiety. These experiences have profoundly shaped me as an artist, allowing me to use my art as a metaphor for personal growth and self-discovery. Each layer of paint mirrors my journey—stripping away what is no longer needed and revealing the essence of what remains. My artwork is a testament to overcoming obstacles and finding beauty in the process of transformation.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

At 25, my life took a dramatic turn when I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. The chronic pain that accompanied it was debilitating, and the medication I was prescribed brought its own set of challenges: weight gain, fatigue, and deepening anxiety and depression. I felt ensnared in a relentless cycle of pain and helplessness.
Determined to reclaim my life, I began to question the efficacy of my medication and its side effects. The prospect of finding more holistic methods to manage my condition seemed daunting, but I knew I needed a change. It was a struggle to get started, but as they say, once you gain momentum, it’s astonishing how quickly things can change. Gradually, by making small adjustments to my daily habits—be it through diet, exercise, or mindfulness—I noticed a significant reduction in my flare-ups. The incremental improvements fueled my hope and resilience.
During this transformative period, my cousin Cal Chalker presented an audacious idea: climbing to Mount Everest Base Camp. It seemed like a monumental challenge, but it resonated deeply with my newfound resolve. With a few years of rigorous training and preparation, this dream began to take shape.
On May 6th, 2023, at 1:45 pm Nepalese time, we stood at Everest Base Camp, a testament to our perseverance. The climb was grueling, more demanding than we had ever anticipated, but it symbolized much more than just a physical challenge. It was the culmination of my journey from feeling stuck in chronic pain and medication-induced despair to embracing resilience and pushing beyond perceived limits.
This achievement was a profound reminder that resilience is not just about overcoming physical obstacles but also about triumphing over internal battles. To anyone struggling with chronic illness, mental health issues, or self-doubt: remember that even the smallest steps toward change can build momentum. Embrace the challenge, and let your resilience guide you to new heights.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

Embracing my role as an artist and educator has profoundly shaped my life’s purpose: to help children through the arts by becoming an art therapist. The journey of creating and teaching art has been deeply rewarding, allowing me to channel and heal my own past struggles. I find the greatest sense of accomplishment when my artwork resonates deeply with someone, evoking a genuine emotional response. It is through these connections and the healing power of art that I feel truly fulfilled.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.artofleighpursley.com
• Instagram: art_of_leighpursley
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artofleighpursley/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leigh-pursley-a0a51b294?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app