NEW YORK, NY.- New York-based artist Katya Leonovich, renowned internationally for her fashion designs, is embarking on a thrilling new chapter in her creative journey. Her latest solo exhibition, "American Renaissance," marks the opening of the Leonovich Gallery in Chelsea, Manhattan. This captivating showcase presents Leonovich's latest body of figurative paintings, a testament to her fearless creativity and ability to seamlessly blend different artistic worlds.

Leonovich's career has been marked by her innovative approach to fashion. Her designs have graced the runways of New York Fashion Week for several seasons, captivating audiences with their bold aesthetics and unique blend of elements. Celebrities such as Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, and Carrie Underwood have proudly worn her creations. Now, Leonovich is reimagining her artistic vision through painting, offering a fresh perspective on masculinity, strength, and fragility.


Adrenaline

Her new collection, "American Renaissance," is a powerful exploration of these themes, infused with striking animal symbolism. The paintings invite viewers to contemplate the complexities of human nature and our relationship with the natural world. Leonovich's masterful use of color, composition, and narrative creates a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience.

I had a chance to interview Leonovich about her exhibition, along with her journey in the fashion and art worlds.

Question: Can you tell me a little bit about the show?

Answer: I call this show "American Renaissance" because it celebrates life and all its forms. My paintings feature humans and animals, all living things on Earth. As an American artist, I wanted to create a tribute to American life.

Question: What motivated your transition from fashion design to painting? And how has your background in fashion influenced your approach to art?

Answer: I've always painted, even while working in fashion for 20 years. My dream was always to be a painter. Fashion came naturally, as it's a form of art with abstract elements. The transition to focus solely on art was a natural step.


Knockout

My fashion background has influenced my painting, especially in terms of color and composition. I use colors in a way that's reminiscent of fashion, with contrasting elements that work together harmoniously.

Question: What draws you to explore contrasts like strength and fragility, and what message do you aim to convey through this?

Answer: Life is complex and full of contradictions. I'm interested in exploring these contrasts in my paintings, such as the strength of animals like lions and the fragility of small birds. I want to tell stories about these characters and the different aspects of human nature.


Katya Leonovich

Question: How does your experience in fashion influence your painting?

Answer: My menswear collection significantly influenced my paintings. I studied male anatomy in depth, and the use of male figures in my work is a direct result of this. I find the male body to be interesting and visually rich.

I also incorporate narratives into my paintings, often involving interactions between humans and animals. I want to convey messages about humanity's relationship with nature and the importance of compassion.


Lionheart

Question: How do you use colors and technique to explore themes such as power, identity, or vulnerability?

Answer: I use color to convey different emotions and themes. For example, a vibrant red might represent strength, while a soft purple might represent vulnerability. The colors and techniques I use help to create the narratives and emotions within my paintings.


Universal Mama

Question: How do you develop narratives in your work and what do you hope viewers can take away from them?

Answer: I develop narratives by incorporating symbols and imagery that tell stories. For example, a man sitting on a turtle while holding a cobra can be interpreted in various ways. I hope viewers can connect with these narratives on a personal level and gain a deeper understanding of human nature and our place in the world.


You Choose...

Question: What new themes or mediums are you excited to explore?

Answer: I'm interested in exploring the theme of country music in my next series. Country music is a uniquely American art form, and I want to pay tribute to it. I'm also considering experimenting with sculpture and video in the future.


I Walk The Line

Question: Can you tell me a little bit more about yourself, where you come from, when you got here, and especially when you started in fashion and when did you decide to expand into art?

Answer: I was born in Moscow, Russia, where I began my journey in fashion design. My studies took me from Russia to Italy, where I trained further and gained hands-on experience working at a prestigious fashion house. Before moving to the United States, I showcased my own fashion line in Paris. Now, after 17 years in New York, I’m proud to call myself an American citizen. I always painted while working in fashion, and eventually, I decided to focus solely on art. I realized that art is timeless, while fashion is seasonal.


Leonovich Gallery