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Press Statement

Distinction Gallery is thrilled to announce the opening reception of "In a Perfect World", a solo exhibition featuring artwork by world renown Gabe Leonard. The exhibition will include both new works and his greatest hits - many closet to sold out. The artist will be present and one lucky person will get to sit for a live painting. To enter come dressed up, influenced by Gabe's art, and get a free ticket. Get an additional ticket per $20 spent on Gabe's art. Drawing at 8pm. Additionally, we will have live music, open studios, and drinks for sale from Last Spot by Hidden Hive. Gabe Leonard spent his early years in rural Wyoming, sketching wildlife and selling his drawings for one dollar. After earning his BFA from Columbus College in Ohio, Leonard honed his talents on the ultra-competitive Venice Beach boardwalk.

Described as "Johnny Cash meets Quentin Tarantino," Gabe Leonard's original art and prints possess an intense cinematic quality combining the gestural brushwork of expressionism with the expert lighting and framing of a Hollywood cinematographer. His oils are cinematic, atmospheric and moody, revolving around outlaws, rugged Noir characters to create narratives full of dramatic possibility.

While his subjects and compositions belie a heavy influence of modern and contemporary cinema, Leonard's artistic style is rooted firmly in a European tradition. While he often breaks from academic restrictions with his loose brushwork and characteristic drips, he counts Rembrandt, Mucha, Klimt and Schiele as amongst his influences.

Following a string of sell-out shows and acquisitions by high-profile collectors, Leonard has quickly become one of the most sought-after artists in the world. Whenever his work is up for sale, galleries, art enthusiasts and high-profile celebrities rush to buy his admirable art and paintings. Recent celebrity collectors include Quentin Tarantino, Charlie Sheen, and Rueben Fleischer. Leonard currently resides in Los Angeles.

The exhibition will run from October 8 - November 5.

Artist Bios

Gabe Leonard