Come party with me!

 

“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.”
—Mae West

 

During the opening show at the Pierro Gallery I stood next to my portrait of Carol Lane, “Behind The Lens.” Carol was a wonderful photographer and terrific person I met through Studio Montclair.

 

Saturday night, we blew the roof off the brand-new Baird Center during the grand reopening of the Pierro Gallery of South Orange, New Jersey. The place was packed to the gunwales! I'm honored and humbled that my painting hangs with the work of other incredibly talented artists in the show. 

Our mayor, Sheena Cullum, was there along with Judy Wukitsch, who co-founded the gallery in 2001 with her late husband, Lennie Pierro. Pierro was a fine artist and longtime South Orange resident. He sought to create a cooperative effort between fine artists and the town. The celebration continued upstairs to the cafe, where a jazz band entertained as folks enjoyed a fantastic spread of food and drink. The entire building has been reimagined and updated beautifully. The evening was a wonderful and vibrant celebration of South Orange, our community, and our artists. The gallery is state-of-the-art, and it's spectacular. The show is running through June 12th, go see it!

I have so many wonderful events coming up. Come party with me at all of them. And reach out here to meet me at any of the galleries and I’ll show you around. Life is short, lets have fun!

  • THIS WEEKEND!!!
    THE ART OF COMMUNITY #1
    Sunday, April, 28th, 3pm – 6pm
    488 Summit AvenueSouth Orange, NJ, 07079

  • THE WARREN COURT ART WALK
    Saturday, May 11th & Sunday, May 12th 11:00am – 5:00pm.
    36 Warren Court, South Orange, NJ, 07079

  • THE CHATHAM LIBRARY SOMA STUDIO TOUR ARTISTS SHOW
    Opening reception, June 9th 2:15 – 4pm.
    214 Main Street, Chatham Township, NJ, 07928

  • PAINTERS IN THE PARK
    Saturday, May 18th, 10am – 3pm
    Memorial Park, Maplewood, NJ, 07040

  • THE WORLD IS YOUR OYSTER
    Opening reception, September 19th 7pm – 9pm.
     Gallery Roshana, 120 rue de la Boétie 75008

  • WILD CHERRY ART PARTY
    Saturday, Oct 26, 2024, get on the A-list for the information

Stay tuned, more to come! Make sure you’re on the Wild Cherry Art mailing list so you don’t miss a beat!

 

Own a spectacular work of original art and see your investment skyrocket

 

"Life beats down and crushes the soul, and art reminds you that you have one."
— Stella Adler

 

Above is a small sampling of Wild Cherry Art pieces that live in permanent homes across the globe and will increase in value!

 

Do you own a piece of Wild Cherry Art? I am thrilled to tell you its value will increase this Fall! So far, I'm participating in nine shows this year. I'm creating so much new work that I can feel myself growing! I'm grateful that my collector list is rapidly expanding. After I attend the residency in France this September, followed by a show in Paris, the prices of Wild Cherry Art will go up.

Why now? Demand has increased, and the cost of everything has nearly tripled. The silver lining is that this is excellent news if you own a piece of Wild Cherry Art. If you've been thinking about purchasing a painting, now would be a great time to buy. You'll own a spectacular new work of art, and your investment will grow automatically in October 2024. Make an appointment to meet me in my studio by clicking the button below.

I'll honor my current commission fees, but they will increase after October as well, so if budget is on your mind, make the appointment for a discovery call right now to discuss your dream project!

See you soon,
Leslie
xo

Check out all of my upcoming events! Meet me at the Openings:

🍒 PIERRO GALLERY Spring ‘24 EXHIBITION

OPENING RECEPTION

Wednesday, April 17th, 6:30-8:30pm
5 Mead Street, South Orange, New Jersey 07079
Wednesday, April 17, through Wednesday, June 12, 2024,


🍒 THE ART OF COMMUNITY

ARTIST SALON SERIES #1

Sunday, April 28, 3:00pm — 6:00pm
488 Summit Avenue, Maplewood, 07040


🍒 WARREN COURT ART WALK

Saturday, May 11th & Sunday, May 12th, 11:00am to 5:00pm.
Warren Court, South Orange, NJ, 07079


🍒 CHATHAM LIBRARY SHOW

OPENING RECEPTION

June 9th 2:15—4pm.
The Chatham Library, 214 Main Street, Chatham Township, NJ, 07928
Saturday, June 1, through Sunday, June 30, 2024, 10:00 AM—5:00 PM


🍒 THE WORLD IS MY OYSTER

OPENING RECEPTION

Thursday, September 19th 6pm—9pm
Galerie Roshana, 120 Rue de la Boétie, 75008 Paris
Thursday, September 19, through Sunday, September 22, 2024


🍒 WILD CHERRY ART PARTY

Saturday, October 26th—RSVP for details


🍒 STUDIO TOUR SOMA

Saturday, November 2nd and Sunday, November 3rd, 2024, 11 AM—5:00 PM
Wild Cherry Art (map) and throughout South Orange and Maplewood, NJ



 

Want to conjure a world of possibilities and pearls of wisdom?

 
 

The oyster has taken what was at first an irritation and intrusion and uses it to enrich its value.”
― Susan C. Young

 
 

First stop in New Orleans was the Carousel Bar at the Hotel Monteleone in the French Quarter. Andrew and I met up with my friend, Devra Dedeaux for cocktails and oysters.

 

This year is shaping up to be off-the-chart stupendous! My trip to New Orleans was sensational. I introduced NOLA to my boyfriend, Andrew, and we did everything and more. One of my favorite things about NOLA are the oysters. For over 30 years, I’ve been collecting oyster photos with a plan to create a series of Oyster paintings, and after this latest trip, I’m finally ready to start! I’m excited to focus on a subject I have loved and enjoyed for so long, which conjures a world of possibilities and magical transformation. After all, the world is your oyster, filled with pearls of wisdom. I will present the first oyster paintings at the Warren Court Art Walk on Mother’s Day weekend.

Click the button below and head to my events page to see all the fun things I’ve got coming up. Meet me at the opening of the Pierro Gallery show in April and the Chatham Library show in June. If you’re planning that trip to Europe, make sure you plan your visit to Paris around my two-woman show at the beautiful Gallery Roshana, mere steps off the Champs Elysees opening September 19th! Check out Andi Ipacktchi's work. She’s my cohort in Paris.

I’ll be attending the NG Artist Residency in Provence for two weeks before my Paris show. I’m thrilled to be going with my art buddy, Sandra Charlap. When I return from Paris I’ll be prepping for my Wild Cherry Art Halloween pARTy, and I’ll wrap up the year with our beloved Studio Tour SOMA. Go to my website now and get on my A-list to learn about all my events, times, and locations. Don’t miss any of the fun!

See you soon!
Love,
Leslie

 

Would you like to co-create a masterpiece for yourself?

 
 

“A good painting to me has always been like a friend. It keeps me company, comforts and inspires.”
—Hedy Lamarr

 

Click on the image to read the article.

"Canvas Rebel" interviewed me for their magazine. Their first question was, "What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?” Hands down, my most meaningful projects are commissions. I walk my clients through an in-depth process to create a canvas filled with layer upon layer of artful alchemy infused with my client's joys, hopes, and dreams. The reaction of every client has been priceless. They are overwhelmed and often moved to tears of joy. I'm grateful to be trusted with their most precious feelings. This is the best and most fulfilling work I've ever done.

My client, seen here, is adding a secret note to her husband. This adds to the meaning of the piece.

One example was a surprise anniversary commission. My client wanted me to create something special for her husband. He mentioned a sketch I posted on Facebook of a Rickenbacher 4001 bass. He told her that this was his very first guitar. When we started discussing the project, I asked her how many bands her husband played in because I thought putting all the band names around the guitar would make it more meaningful and personal to him. The whole family helped get me intel by asking him one evening at dinner to share all the names of the bands he'd been in over the years. His wife came over and painted a private note to him in the underpainting. She shared his Spotify playlist with me, which I always ask for. It helps me to get into their specific zone. This was the first time I had an extensive listening experience with the band Dream Theater. Ultimately, when my client revealed her surprise gift, her husband was utterly overwhelmed. Priceless.

Here is the almost final painting with names of all the bands he was in as well as some secret additions to make it more meaningful.

If you'd like to schedule a free 15-minute information session to learn about co-creating a commissioned piece of transformational art, click the button.

I hope to see you soon. Wishing you and yours a fabulous February!
Love,
Leslie
xo

 

What color's all-embracing spirit enriches mind, body, and soul?

 

“Color is a power which directly influences the soul.”
—Wassily Kandinsky

 

In the ‘80s I wore lots of dayglow and bright colors. Even thought I’m wearing a baby pink leather jacket, I was bold color forward!

 

PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz is the color for 2024. Pantone's website says Peach Fuzz "captures our desire to nurture ourselves and others. It's a velvety, gentle peach tone whose all-embracing spirit enriches mind, body, and soul." This sounds great. I love to nurture, and I love the idea of enriching my mind, body, and soul, but this color feels to me like a boring '80s flashback. I have noticed that many brands are embracing colors with an '80s vibe, so this is happening, like it or not. Will we all be feathering our hair and wearing leg warmers? Time will tell.

As for my artwork, peach doesn't speak to me. I love bold, bright, saturated colors. I also know contrast provides interest, and peach doesn't add contrast. It tends to soften things. Should I explore my softer creative side? What do you think? Unless I get an overwhelming response from the Universe, I'll stick with my bold colors. And if I have to go back to the '80s, I'm going in fluorescent!

 
 

Here are a few examples of my acrylic paintings; as you can see, they are vibrant with bold colors and lots of contrast. See them in person. Click the button to set up a studio visit. I'd love to show you how vibrant they are in real life. I'd also love to have a chat and catch up.

Stay warm and wonderful.

Love,
Leslie




 

Did you know, if you had fun you won?

 

“Having fun is not a diversion from a successful life; it is the pathway to it.”
— Martha N. Beck

 

Start the year with a splash of Wild Cherry Art. You’ve already won, because it’s fun!

 

Happy New Year! 2024 is looking brighter than ever. We are already heading out of the darkness and back into the light. Day by day, we get a few more minutes of sunshine. I hope your holidays were filled with love and laughter, and now you're all refreshed and revved up for a spectacular year!

 

Here I’m having brunch at Antoine’s, the oldest family-run business in the United States, nestled in the French Quarter. If you haven’t been, you need to eat here. Before you go to NOLA, hit me up and I’ll give you a list for everything!

 

I've got plans to head back to New Orleans in January. You know it's one of my all-time favorite cities. The magic of NOLA is palpable. Visiting the Big Easy always feels like a recharge. Meet me there, and we'll get oysters! I'll gather more inspo for paintings and new original music. It's effortless to be excited and inspired by the incredible southern hospitality mixed with decadent food, fantastic live music everywhere, steamy weather, go cups, European architecture, fascinating history, and bars that never close. It's SO fun!

 

Let’s have more fun this year! In 2023 I had lotsa fun at a wooden shoe factory in Holland.

 

That's my word for the year—FUN! If it doesn't feel a smidge fun, I have difficulty even getting started. I believe fun is the secret sauce that helps us accomplish more, with ease and joy. So maybe when you're feeling stuck this year, try a more playful approach to your challenges. A childlike perspective can restore wonder to your problems and hope for the outcome. Don't forget—"If you had fun, you won!"

If you need more ways to add fun to your life, visit me in the studio, and I'll help you get the party started!

Wishing you and yours an abundance of blissful blessings and loads of fun in 2024.

Love,
Leslie
xo

 

How about giving something uplifting, uniquely crafted, and meaningful?

 

“Oh, Christmas isn’t just a day; it’s a frame of mind.”
—Kris Kringle in Miracle on 34th Street

 
 

The Wild Cherry Art Holiday open house was super fun! It was cold and dreary outside and warm and wonderful inside. Sadra Charlap, guest artist extraordinaire, and I were grateful to share so many laughs, smiles, and sparkles with everyone who stopped by. I don't mess around with decorations; I go all in! So it's a Wild Cherry pink winter wonderland. See for yourself; make an appointment to visit the studio for the holidays. Revel in the decor, see the new paintings, celebrate the season with me. Bring friends, and we'll make it a party! If you're looking for holiday cheer, I've got loads to share.

While you’re visiting, you can finish up your holiday shopping. I have many beautiful pieces to delight and inspire everyone on your list. We can all use something uplifting, so give your special someone a uniquely crafted and thoughtful gift. They don't need random stuff; they want meaningful things. Cherries remind us that life is filled with pits and stems and also that sweet, delicious, juicy fruit. Focus on the good stuff with a vibrant cherry painting! You can't find my work on Amazon, but you can find it here, on my website or in person.

 

Holiday Open House! This Sunday, December 3rd, 1pm–6pm. COME!

 
 
 

WILD CHERRY ART HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

Join me on Sunday, December 3rd, from 1 pm till 6 pm. 
36 Warren Court, South Orange, NJ
Sip, snack, shop, and socialize. The first ten people receive a free gift. 
Our connection is what brings me the most joy. Come and celebrate with me!

 
 

I hope your Thanksgiving was wonderful. Now it's time to gear up for the season of giving. Because you're on my list, you're invited to a unique, private Holiday Open House. Everything is even more sparkling for the holidays. Join me for a nosh, a chat, and some holiday cheer. Pick up a print or a painting for a gift or yourself. I have new Cherry and Northern Lights paintings and a few new Quarantinis and Landscapes, plus Cherry and Nutcracker totes. I also offer gift certificates. A beautiful piece of ART serves as a positive catalyst for enhancing our well-being. Art has the power to heal, inspire, provoke, challenge and offer hope. Now that’s a meaningful gift for the person who has everything!

 

The delightful Sandra Charlap will be joining me on Sunday. Come and have fun with us!

 

Sandra Charlap will join me again and sell her beautiful paintings, mosaics, and greeting cards. We had such a great time together during the studio tour we thought we'd buddy up again. Stop by and enjoy the fun. If you're nice, I'll play you my original holiday song! And if you're naughty, I've got something for you too!

With love and gratitude,
Leslie
xo

 

What's not to be thankful for? I get mangos in January!

 
 

"Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom."
— Marcel Proust

 
 

This is a chalk painting of a pasture raised, organic turkey that created when I worked at Whole Foods painting signs.

 

As I prepare my home and pantry for the holiday, I'm connecting to all I'm thankful for: family, friends, my boyfriend, good health, extraordinary experiences, a beautiful home, a wonderful community, and all my creative gifts. I'm grateful for living in this time of indoor plumbing, heated car seats, electricity, grocery stores, pillow top mattresses, mangos in January, and everything available in this modern world. Most of us live like kings and queens. It’s an amazing time to be a human. It's also a very turbulent time in a frightening world. I get through it by focusing on the light and practicing gratitude.

This holiday feels especially powerful, and I'm grateful for my freedom and ability to help others. I volunteer at a nonprofit, the WConnection, where widows help widows rebuild their lives. This organization was instrumental in my healing journey. Right now, every donation is being doubled through a matching grant! However you give, and whatever you do to help others improves the world. It has a ripple effect. Wouldn't it be awesome if we could turn that ripple into a tsunami of love! Let's not give up until we succeed. Let’s honor our earth and each other, appreciate all we have, and give back from our hearts. Each of us can make a difference.

Wild Cherry Art holiday open house

Join me on Sunday, December, 3rd from 1pm till 6pm.
36 Warren Court, South Orange, NJ
Sip, snack, shop, and socialize. The first 10 people receive a free gift.
Our connection is what brings me the most joy. So come and make my day!

From my table to yours, wishing you and yours an abundance of blessings this Thanksgiving.
With love and gratitude,
Leslie

 

Do you want an exciting behind-the-scenes special date?

 
 

“Creativity is inventing, experimenting, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes, and having fun.”
— Mary Lou Cook

 
 

The amazing winners of the costume contest, Kyle Huntsberry of Milk Honey Soul and Joey Huntsberry won a Limited Edition Wild Cherry Art Giclee print, “The Monster Lies Within.”

 

You know how it is when you focus on accomplishing something big? You have a lot of balls in the air and want to keep them all spinning. Well, this week is one of those weeks for me. It's the culmination of months of work. This past Saturday night, I hosted my SOMA Artists Studio Tour Preview pARTy, which was spooktackular! The art was on display, the band rocked the house with eight new songs, the costumes were poppin', and the cocktails had 'em droppin'!

 
 

Tonight is the opening reception of "Unveiled," a curated show of more than 50 artists participating in this year's Studio Tour. Meet the artists and see a sampling of their work to help you decide whose studios you'd like to visit on Saturday and Sunday. I hope to see you there.

 
 

Then, the big finale is the 20th Anniversary SOMA Artists Studio Tour. I'll be hosting the incredibly talented and super fun Sandra Charlap at my studio. Visit us both and see our new work, buy a painting to expand or start your collection, or pick up a special gift for someone. We'll have a drink, a nosh, and enjoy catching up with you. There will be five additional artists to visit on Warren Court: Sybil Archibald, Jay Pingree, Wendy Bellerman, Christopher Boudewyns, and Fred Courts. So make sure to put Warren Court on your "must-stop" list!

 

We were a band of circus performers and we entertained the crowd at the pARTy. Stuart Klinger (the lion, on guitar) I (the ringmaster) played rhythm guitar and sang, Glenn Healy (the strongman) on drums, and Phil Cohen (the clown) on bass. We rocked!

 

Come spend some time with me in the studio. Click the button below and make a date with me! I'll show you the new collections, heck, I'll show you all the collections! You can get a special private behind-the-scenes look, and I'll play and sing you a song. I'm looking forward to getting together.

See you real soon.
Love,
Leslie

 

RSVP now for Saturday night so you don't miss all the fun!

 
 

“Life is a party. Dress for it.”
―Audrey Hepburn

Small seasonal Chalk pastel.

 

If you’re coming to the party and you haven’t RSVP’d, do it right now! There are only a few spots left and I don’t want you to miss out on the fun. I’m figuring out how much booze to buy so click the button and RSVP now! When you get confirmation you’re in!

Wild Cherry Art Preview pARTy
Saturday, October, 28, 2023
7pm – 11pm
36 Warren Court, South Orange, NJ

There will be a live band, a costume contest, food, fun, friends, and you! You needn’t wear a costume, but you'll have more fun if you do! First prize for the costume contest is this limited edition fine art Giclee print.

I’m so excited to see you!
love,
Leslie
xo

 

Please will you join me? We have so much to celebrate.

 

“Instead of hate, celebrate.”
–Prince

The Monster Lies Within Limited Edition Giclee print will be awarded to the best costume at the Wild Cherry Art pARTy.

 
 

You're an A-Lister, so I'm expecting to see you at one, if not all, of the following exciting events!

SAturday, October, 28th

〰️

SAturday, October, 28th 〰️

Wild Cherry Art Preview pARTy

Saturday, October, 28, 2023
7pm – 11pm
36 Warren Court, South Orange, NJ

Come celebrate with me! I'll be showing new work, performing with a live band, judging the costume contest, partying like a rockstar, and enjoying your sparkling company! We’ll have drinks, food, and fun. You needn’t wear a costume, but you'll have more fun if you do! You can win this limited edition fine art Giclee print if you win the costume contest. It’s a celebration of Halloween and our friendship along with a preview of the studio and new work before the public shows up next week for the 2oth anniversary of the SOMA Artists Studio Tour. RSVP to save your spot. Space is limited!


THursday, November, 2nd

〰️

THursday, November, 2nd 〰️

 
 

Mark your calendar for Unveiled: the opening reception and show highlighting 50 artists participating in the tour. You can check out their work and plan whose studio you want to see.



Sat & Sun, November 4 & 5

〰️

Sat & Sun, November 4 & 5 〰️

 
 

Start the 20th Annual SOMA Artist Studio Tour at Wild Cherry Art!

See Leslie's new work alongside visiting artist, the fantastic Sandra Charlap at 36 Warren Court. Start with a drink, a nosh, great conversation, and lotsa fun. Buy some art to start or grow your collection. Then, see the six other artists showing on the same block! You can visit more than 90 artists as they open their doors and share their unique brand of creativity and art during this beloved community event. Talk to artists in their studios, view beautiful works of art, and gain a unique and personal view of the life of an artist.

I’m so looking forward to seeing you. Life comes with so many ups and downs. Let’s choose to be up and celebrate these events together. I’m grateful for our connections and I want to share a little sunshine or maybe even a bowlful of cherries with you.

See you real soon,
Leslie
xo

 

How to embrace life's delights while dealing with the challenges

 

“Today was good. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one.”
– Dr. Seuss

 

Day one of fun with my girl on our trip to the Pacific Northwest!

 

My cup is so full it's overflowing! Get this: I offered to take my daughter anywhere she wanted to go as a present for graduating high school, and she said, "Why would I want to go anywhere with you? That would be weird." When she graduated college this year, I courageously asked again, and she said yes! We went to Vancouver, Victoria, and Seattle and had the best time! We walked over 100,000 steps, went to the aquarium, ate oysters, drank cocktails, visited museums, went to the Bumbershoot music festival, stayed in two hotels that the Beatles stayed in, saw dahlias bigger than our heads, ferried around the Pacific Northwest, swam, met with friends, made new friends, and had so much fun together. The morning we returned, she walked toward me, and I was uncertain, but she hugged me, thanked me, and went to bed. I nearly fell over from the weight of my heart, growing three sizes!

 

In Seattle we stayed at the Edgewater Hotel where the Beatles famously had a picture taken where they were fishing out their window. Edgewater doesn’t let you rent fishing equipment any longer but they do let you borrow a guitar!

 

I'm gratefully embracing a deeper connection with my daughter, but I am still preoccupied with my mother's health and care. Life's challenges can get us into a dark place so quickly. It is the nature of our mind in service to our survival instinct. Now, that tendency mostly gets in the way of our joy. I've learned to accept and deal with the challenges as best I can, focus on life's delights, and lean into the fun stuff! We get to choose.

Lean into the fun with me at my preview pARTy for the SOMA Artists Studio Tour! It's the Tour's 20th Anniversary, and it will be sensational. Save the dates and be part of the fun!

Wild Cherry pARTy
(Exclusive to my A-Listers)
Saturday, October 28, 2023
7pm — 11pm
I’ll be performing new songs with a live band, new artwork, new friends, yummy snacks, delicious drinks, a guaranteed good time! Costumes encouraged not required. There will be prizes!
RSVP now by clicking the cherry red button above to reserve your spot!

 
 

SOMA Artists Studio Tour
Saturday & Sunday 11am - 5pm
November 4th & 5th
Stop by my studio on Warren Court and see me first!
Then, see how the magic happens as more than 70 artists in two towns welcome visitors to their studios.




 

How to listen to your heart and live your dreams...

 

“The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams.”
–Oprah Winfrey

 
This is a life size, chalk pastel, self portrait I did for my application to Parson’s School of Design.

This is a life size, chalk pastel, self portrait I did for my application to Parson’s School of Design. This body has been through a lot. I’m grateful for every moment and I am making my health a priority.

 

I miss you. I’ve been out of touch for a minute because I’ve been dealing with some health issues. My doctors have been awesome and everything has gotten sorted out. I’m ready to pivot back to my routines and focus on what brings me joy, so I am reintroducing myself to you.

As a fine artist and owner of Wild Cherry Art, I’m on a mission to cultivate joy through art, music, and by living in the spirit of appreciation. 

I started creating art when I was a child. By age 7, I was painting in oils and playing the piano. I was only interested in things I felt passionate about. While other kids were partying in high school, I was home painting, drawing, and making music. I also snuck into the Fastlane or the Stone Pony in Asbury Park on Friday nights to see live bands. I wanted to be a painter and a rockstar when I grew up.

 

Most of my time in in high school was spent in my bedroom painting and listening to and making music. The rest of the time I was working for Bamberger’s at the Stagelight counter, driving around in my super cool cherry-red Mustang convertible, or seeing live music.

 

Graduating with a BFA from Parsons School of Design set me on an exciting course. I painted dozens of murals across the country for Betsey Johnson, worked for several prestigious design firms, and held art director positions at major publishing houses. I’ve won several awards for excellence in graphic design and illustration, working for top-shelf clientele. Below is a gallery of a few book jackets I designed over the years.

 
 

With my husband’s untimely death, I suddenly became a single parent of two young children. I felt forced to re-evaluate my purpose and embarked on a healing journey. My commitment to following my dreams strengthened. I had seen how fleeting life can be firsthand. It was time to get back to painting and fulfill that dream. I realized that I had been given a gift that I must share. It’s never too late. The time is now! 

 

I pivoted from graphic design back to my first love of painting. It’s never too late to follow your dreams. There is always a cherry painting on the easel. They are my favorite metaphor for life with pits, stems and the sweet juicy fruit! Life is a bowl of cherries!

 

My work can help you live a more connected, better quality of life. Wild Cherry Art lifts your spirits and connects you to joy and wonder. How awesome is that?! I use decades of painting, drawing, graphic design, and spiritual practices to inform my artistic process to delight and inspire you with exciting, vibrant works of art. Art is a powerful force that unites, heals, and enriches our lives. Browse through my available creations, notice how you feel, listen to your heart, and see if anything connects you to joy and wonder. That’s the one! Or contact me to come for a fun studio visit or to create a meaningful custom piece of art.

 

Painting in Memorial Park this past May. I love painting Plein Air (outside) in nature. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the light.

 

Following my dreams lets me maintain a playful revelry in my approach to life. The possibilities are endless. Painting lights my fire. I continue to make music because I love it. I’m not sneaking into clubs anymore, I’m playing at them! My deep connections with friends and family fill my heart. I delight in traveling and live each day (well, most) to the fullest. When you follow your heart, your life is filled with meaning. Let my story and artwork inspire you to freely express your creative nature and inner radiance and explore your dreams and desires. It’s never too late to start. I’ve restarted several times. Life is a bowl of cherries enjoy all the good parts and spit out the pits!

Love you lots,
Leslie
xo

 

Art is a powerful force that unites, heals, and enriches our lives.

 

“Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.”
― Pablo Picasso

 

On the porch with my latest painting, “Looking For Cal Pep/Barcelona.” See it in the Studio Montclair Critique Group Show. The Opening is Friday, June, 16th 6 pm till 8pm, at the Studio Montclair Gallery, 127 Bloomfield Ave., Montclair, NJ.

 

I'm delighted to recount the experience of the Warren Court Art Walk: an event that captured the essence of artistic splendor. Let me paint you a picture of this wonderful weekend and express my deep appreciation to everyone who joined this unforgettable outdoor salon.

Nestled in the heart of our vibrant community, the Warren Court Art Walk unfolded as a celebration of art, connecting artists, art lovers, and the community with a great burst of creative energy. Lucky for us the weather was fantastic. Inspired by visionary local artists this event breathed life onto the usually quiet street, transforming it into an open-air gallery where colors and stories blended with excitement. I set my porch up as a gallery space where I displayed my paintings and performed live music with drummer Glenn Healy and bass player Phil Cohen. You know it was a pARTy! Glenn also pitched in to help for the entire weekend! The variety of media on display on this one block in the historic Montrose Park District was awe-inspiring — from captivating paintings with vivid hues to intricate jewelry made from either precious metals or denim. The atmosphere was a symphony of colors and textures.

 
 

One of the best things about the art walk was the opportunity for meaningful interactions. Conversations sparkled like the lights in my latest painting, "Looking for Cal Pep/Barcelona." Artists and attendees engaged in dialogues, sharing insights, inspirations, and personal stories behind their creations.

As one of the organizers, along with Wendy Bellermann and Sybil Archibald, I am grateful to the participating artists who made the event such a success. Wendy, Sybil, and I worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that every detail of the Warren Court Art Walk was an unforgettable experience for all who participated.

Thank you for wandering the art-filled street and embracing the magic of creativity. Your presence and support are invaluable, reminding us that art is a powerful force that unites, heals, and enriches our lives.

If you didn’t make it to the Art Walk or if you came and want to see more, click the button to schedule an appointment to come for a studio visit. We can meet in person or on Zoom. I can’t guarantee cocktails but coffee and tea are always available. And I’m always happy to play you a song!


See you next time!
Love,
Leslie
xo

 

Oh My Gosh! The Warren Court Art Walk Is This Weekend!

 

You can read all about it right here. I'll set up on my porch with new work hot off the easel. Have a margarita with me and talk art, travel, music, buy an original, pick up a print, commission a piece, or shoot the breeze. It's a super fun event that fellow artists Sybil Archibald, Wendy Bellermann, and I curated to make The Warren Court Art Walk a fantastic weekend of arts immersion for collectors, connoisseurs, and art lovers of all ages.

I’ve started working on paintings inspired from my recent travels. You see it here first because you’re on my list. See them in person this weekend!

I'll perform a short set of LIVE MUSIC with Glenn Healy and special guests on both days.
Not sure what time. You'll just have to get lucky! 

The restaurant, Miti Miti, will set up a food tent and serve their scrumptious empanadas. You can park right on the street. South Orange has a few great new restaurants too, and the weather is going to be spectacular! Don't miss it when you're out and about.

The Warren Court Art Walk
Saturday, June 3rd & Sunday, June 4th 
from 11:00am to 5:00pm

22 Exceptional Artists on One Block

It's going to be a pARTy!

See you this weekend,
Leslie
xo

 

Want to walk on a glacier, see an active volcano, and float in a geothermal bath?

 
 

“A good friend listens to your adventures. Your best friend makes them with you.”
—Unknown

 
 
 

I just flew in from Iceland, and boy, are my arms tired! I had a spectacular trip with my bestie, Leah. 💖 Earth Day was Saturday, April 22nd, and I’ reflected on how Iceland forever changed my relationship with Earth. The beauty, majesty, and the power of our planet was more palpable than anywhere I'd ever been before. There's a backdrop of panoramic snow-capped volcanoes, mountains, waterfalls, thermal pools, and glaciers in the distance, with otherworldly lava fields sprawling as far as the eye can see toward the fierce ocean. The energy and life force on the third rock from the sun was powerfully present. It was like being on Earth long before it evolved into this lush, dense planet we currently inhabit. 

 
 

We had a Northern Lights Tour reservation with our Guide, Thor, on the night we arrived. Unfortunately, the forecast called for clouds. So we asked Thor if we could move our adventure to the following night. When we had clear skies and, according to Thor, perfect conditions for Aurora Borealis sightings! We were only about 40 minutes outside Reykjavik when Thor pulled over and announced, "There it is!" And I was like, "What, that cloud?" He insisted that this was it and if we were lucky, it would get bigger, brighter, and have movement and possibly colors. And if it really "blooms," it could ultimately converge across the entire sky in a swirling vortex above our heads. And guess what? That's precisely what happened. 

The blurry pictures of the Northern Lights are from my Iphone. The beautiful clear images were taken by Thor.

The next day we got up and headed out before daybreak to catch a bus that would take us on an all-day adventure on the south coast. The farthest destination was Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach. A delightful Icelandic curmudgeon barista overheard us talking about our upcoming adventure and told us, "The real name of the lagoon is Jökulsárlón and the beach is Breiðamerkursandur, which no one can say. Then a travel agent marketed them as Diamond Beach and Glacier Lagoon, and now they take busloads of people out there every day." Well, it was fabulous! We got our diamonds, glaciers, lava fields, waterfalls, snow angels, icebergs, black beaches, yummy seafood soup, and a few tree jokes from our delightful guide Mia. I had some Brenevin-the Icelandic "health tonic." at our lunch stop in Vik. It was a magical day.

We spent our last few days in Iceland at Silica Hotel on The Blue Lagoon. It was worth every penny! The hotel pool was essentially the Blue Lagoon. We still went over to the proper lagoon and had in-water-floating massages. While basking in the heavenly milky geothermal bath, we enjoyed three facemasks—Exfoliating Lava, deep cleansing Silica, and nourishing Moss Algae. We had a glass or two of Cava while floating around, surrounded by steam, sky, lava formations, and mountains. We went to both restaurants, Michelin-starred Moss one night and Lava the next. Moss was excellent, but Lava gets our stars! 

 
 

The marketing says The Blue Lagoon is one of the 25 wonders of the world. I'm still trying to find that list! But it's definitely on my Top Ten list. We loved it so much that we went back on our stop-over, flying home. We stayed at the Northern Lights Inn for one night, and, low and behold; we saw the Aurora Borealis again! The NLI offers a wake-up call if the Lights show up overnight, and of course, they did! 

I'm excited to return to my art studio with fresh eyes, new experiences, and magnificent inspiration. I am grateful for my adventures and all the beautiful souls I connected with along the way. Life is so precious, and every moment is a gift. I'll be at my easel painting colorful, inspired acrylic paintings. If there is anything in particular, you'd like to see me paint, let me know! Come over, see the new work in the studio, and I'll tell you more about Iceland. I wanna go back in the summer!

Love,
Leslie

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR THE WARREN COURT ART WALK—JUNE 3RD & 4TH!





 

 

Pursue your passion and see everything fall into place with ease.

 

“ Pursue your passion, and everything else will fall into place.
This is not being romantic. This is the highest order of pragmatism.”
– Gabby Giffords

Performing at the Stone Pony in Asbury Park, my old stomping ground!

You haven't seen me painting lately because, behind the scenes, I'm in full swing getting ready for my big trip as well as recording nine new original songs. Music is another one of my lifelong passions. Combining art and music at my events creates a more connective experience. I recorded the vocals with Tim Welch at Sound Underground in South Orange last week. It's so exciting to create things from ideas to fruition. Bringing things to life by co-creating with the universe is one of our main reasons for existing.

 

Me with Tim Welch. If you want to find your voice Tim is your man. Check him out at Tim Welch Vocal Studio.

 

Tim Welch is a musical genius—a cross between Willy Wonka and Mr. Holland from "Mr. Holland's Opus," but cooler and weirder. He's been my voice teacher/vocal coach and ‘brother from another mother’ for over a decade. He’s the wind beneath my musical wings. My band consists of my dear friend Glenn Healy on drums, Philip Cohen on bass, and Stuart Klinger on guitar. These guys are legendary, and I am so grateful to have them all helping me with this project. If you have anything that you want to accomplish in your life, get a team of experts or mentors who have done what you're trying to do and soak up as much of their knowledge as you can! Then get them to be in your band!

I am working on the final elements of the recording before all the tracks get mixed and mastered. I'll share bits and pieces as previews along the way to the big listening pARTy coming this Autumn, when I'll present a new series of paintings based on the new songs.

 
 

My songs, like my paintings, are filled with positive and uplifting concepts. You might laugh or cry, but you're sure to be entertained. I want to help you feel more. Mostly more good stuff, but feeling and being connected is the goal. Music and art provide opportunities to tap into our emotions and change us vibrationally. My goal is to raise your vibration. Come to my studio, and I'll do it! There's so much magic to make. Come to my pARTy, and we'll make some together!

Next week at this time I’ll be trekking around Iceland, before heading to Spain and finally Holland. If you want to see my adventures along the way, be sure to follow me on Instagram or Facebook. Let’s meet in person to catch up when I get back!

Sending you loads of love from near and far,
Leslie
xo

 

Wanna feel uplifted, excited, sensual and nurtured? Add this to your life.

 

“Pink isn't just a color. It's an attitude too.”
—Miley Cyrus

 
 

Magenta is vibrant, joyful, and fun. It also has a bit of badass in it. It's rooted in red and pulsating in pink—my two favorite colors! So, of course, I'm thrilled about Pantone's choice for color of the year, Viva Magenta 18-1750. I love all the warm hues, from sweet baby pink to sexy cherry red. They make frequent appearances in my paintings. Depending on the shade and value, pinks and reds can be uplifting and exciting as well as sensual and nurturing. These warm colors are very luxurious and I love that too!

Our culture is fully embracing the color pink. Have you noticed? And now that we are approaching Valentine's Day, it's in full bloom. If you'd like to get a meaningful, original gift for yourself or someone else special, Click the images above or the button below to learn more about this collection of pink and red paintings and limited edition prints.

“Viva Magenta PANTONE 18-1750 reconnects us to original matter. Invoking the forces of nature, Viva Magenta galvanizes our spirit, helping us to build our inner strength.”
—Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute

I'm practicing some Icelandic phrases for my upcoming trip, and I'm learning to say, "Áttu þetta í bleiku?" —Do you have it in pink?

 
 

Happy Valentines Day.
All my love,
Leslie
💖



 

Take an amazing trip and gain the best experiences points

 
 

"You must go on adventures to find out where you belong."
—Sue Fitzmaurice

Sitting high on top of Buda overlooking the Danube in Budapest. I started traveling last year and I can’t wait to hit the road again.

 

After ten years of raising my children alone it was time to hit the road. My daughter started college in the fall of 2019, and my son headed out to California at the beginning of March 2020. A week later, I was going on a bucket list trip starting in Iceland that Covid squashed. Three years later I'm thrilled to be planning this exciting expedition again! First stop Iceland, where I'll make a date with a guide named Thor, who'll take me into the wilderness during the new moon in search of the Aurora Borealis. Then a week in Spain, driving from Barcelona to Valencia, and then to Holland in time for the tulips. I'm so excited. I've waited decades for this experience. If you have any tips please share with me!

 

My artist friend, Andi, and I took the train from Paris to Chartres to walk the Labyrinth. Ask me about my surprising mystical experience next time we’re together!

 

Traveling is magical. It expands our perspective and introduces us to new cultures, customs, people, architecture, languages, climates, land formations, and food. We can't help but grow into greater versions of ourselves. We gain compassion and connectedness for and with people we would never have known. I take thousands of pictures to use as reference. All the spectacular scenery inspires my artwork.

I had the most amazing trip last year, spending a week visiting friends in Paris, then five days visiting my daughter in Prague, then traveling through Salzburg, Vienna, and Budapest. I learned a lot by planning that trip, and I nailed it! My friend Freya helped me plan and joined me in Prague through the end of the excursion. Since it was so successful, I'm sharing some wisdom with you for designing one of your bucket list trips. Do the research. Lots of research and collect a list of great restaurants, nightclubs, music venues, cocktail bars, places to get great oysters, cool boutique hotels, museums, hot neighborhoods, good shopping, hikes, day trips, natural wonders, etc. Freya and I used an app called TripMaster, an excellent tool for planning a multi-destination adventure. Ask all your friends for recommendations. Do this in advance to protect your valuable vacation time from having to look things up on your phone.

Here are SEVEN tips for booking a fantastic vacation:

  1. Roll with the punches. Not everything will go as planned; sometimes, that's where the most remarkable magic happens.

  2. Make reservations for transportation and lodging as soon as it becomes available. Trip Master is great for this, allowing detailed views of every available hotel in any location.

  3. Plan one thing a day; a boat ride to orient yourself when you first arrive, a class, a museum visit, or a garden visit, and a dinner reservation for most evenings. 

  4. Learn the local greetings and simple phrases like; thank you, where's the bathroom, how much is this, do you have it in pink, and check, please.

  5. Find the best season or time of year to go to your destination. I prefer off-peak most of the time. Places are less crowded so it's more pleasant, and you can get reservations and tickets more easily. 

  6. Pack comfortable shoes. You can get cool ones from Sorel or get insoles. You are going to walk a lot! Wearing comfortable shoes can make the entire experience more enjoyable or miserable. You get to choose!

  7. Make sure to splurge on a few things like seat upgrades on airlines or trains, one or two nights in a luxury hotel, a Michelin-star restaurant, etc. There's a reason they get the star. You want to experience it. You only live once, and you can't take it with you. 

 

Freya and I sipping a Kir Royal and enjoying a scrumptious dinner in Salzburg, Austria after a hectic day of traveling.

 

Be present, be curious, have fun, relax, and enjoy the ride. It's a beautiful world out there. So gain some amazing experience points and have an adventure!

Travel safe, happy trails,
Love,
Leslie