Evoking Emotions Through Art

As the artist behind Lealdezign, I pour my heart and soul into every brushstroke, creating paintings that capture the essence of my inspiration. Each piece I create is a testament to my passion for art. 

Born in Venice California, Steve Leal has been painting for as long as he can remember. Born to Mexican emigrant parents Jose and Maria Leal, Leal was inspired at an early age by his fathers leather work. He watched as his father drew scroll designs and paisley motifs, and then carved these designs into leather, just as his own father had taught him in the old days in making saddles. It was these vivid designs, reminiscent of Art Deco and Art Nouveau, that would later develop in Leal’s work.

As he got older, Leal was inspired by artists, such as, Maxfield Parrish, Mucha, Icart, and Erte’.  

His interest in fashion design prompted him to enroll at FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising). While attending school, his art work was catching the eyes of many. He decided to have a show at 19 at “Self Help Graphics” Gallery. A non-profit gallery that helps up-and- coming young artist’s.

Shortly after, Leal was approached by several publishing companies signing with Weston Graphics. The Art Deco trend of the 80’s propelled Leal’s career. At the age of 21 Leal was on his way to becoming an internationally known artist. Entirely self taught, Leal continued to develop his skills and grow. Not being satisfied, and not wanting to become stagnant, he embarked on larger projects.

Represented by Marcelli Media in the early 90’s, Leal created 90 original paintings for the American Music Awards. The strong graphics and images created such an impact, that he created 75 more images for the AMA’s the following year. He went on to illustrate portraits for the Cecil B. DeMille Award for the Golden Globes, such as Lauren Bacall, Robert Redford and others.

As the market shifted, Leal turned his attention to interior design for 8 years, and working on developing his art, he found himself looking to his roots. His Mexican heritage. He took his decorative sensibilities and love of fashion and begin to create a Deco Vintage look of Mexican stars of the 30’s, and 40’s with Flamenco flair, such as María Félix, Lupe Vélez, Dolores Del Río. Painting women “Ranchera style”, earthy, strong and invincible in their beauty.

Most recently commissioned to create diverse projects, such as posters for Italian Cinema festivals to wine labels for prestigious wineries, Steve Leal continues to paint and exhibit in Los Angeles galleries. Recently creating 4 originals for FX productions. The Gianni Versace murder, as well as 7 originals for the Emmy winning show “POSE”.