Leslie Barlow | Minneapolis College of Art and Design

Leslie Barlow

Image
Alumni Headshot

Alumni
’16

Education
MFA, Minneapolis College of Art and Design
Current Career
Freelance Artist
Location
Minneapolis, Minnesota

How does it feel to be a practicing artist?

That's a tough question, because it feels like a lot of things all at once. It feels like work, joy, vulnerability, play, and everything in between. I enjoy being an artist because it is a never-ending challenge of the mind, body, and spirit. Not many careers have as many twists and question marks and surprises as being an artist does.

What is your artwork about?

My current work employs the figure and narrative elements to explore complex social issues like race, multiculturalism, "otherness," representation, and identity. I investigate these through the use of the personal—often creating works depicting family, friends, people in my community, and personal experiences—to reflect the subtle and not-so-subtle integrations of these ideas into individual lives and identities.

What inspires you?

Humanity, in all its complexity and horridness and weirdness and loveliness.

Painting by Leslie Barlow

What is your biggest takeaway from MCAD?

The community I found at MCAD was wonderful. I came away with many great relationships with faculty and other students that I hope to have for a lifetime.

Any advice for prospective art and design students?

Eat your vegetables!

Painting by Leslie Barlow

Painting by Leslie Barlow

Painting by Leslie Barlow

Painting of Derek and James by Leslie Barlow

Painting by Leslie Barlow

Painting by Leslie Barlow

Painting of Lauryn by Leslie Barlow

Leslie Barlow with original painting

Gallery of paintings by Leslie Barlow