Jeff Legg In conversation with Gussie Fauntleroy
GF: When did you become a professional artist?JL: I went full-time in 1990 after selling my bike business.
GF: Has anything been a constant source of inspiration throughout your career or have new inspirations arisen?JL: I would say that my connection to nature is my primary source of inspiration. I’ve spent much of my life outdoors, fishing, hunting, camping and hiking. It’s my go-to if I’m feeling stuck. It clears the mind and centers me on what is important in life. I always find something to inspire me when I’m out there.
GF: In terms of technique and style, what has changed since the beginning and what do you continue to rely on for your artwork?JL: I’m naturally drawn to the chiaroscuro approach with deep tones of light, shadow and color. Today, some of my work is becoming more narrative as I begin to focus on symbolism and figurative works.
GF: What are some of your proudest career achievements?JL: It’s hard to choose, but just getting into a respected gallery was a great milestone for me and having my work hang alongside artists I greatly admire. Having astronaut Neil Armstrong purchase one of my paintings was a biggie. Being awarded Master status with Oil Painters of America was huge, as well as winning the Gold Medal in their national exhibition. It was also a great honor to give homage to my hometown in a solo exhibition at Spiva Center for the Arts, in Joplin, Missouri. Most recently I was given Signature status in the prestigious California Art Club.
GF: What are you working on now?JL: I’m currently finishing some commissions and doing work for upcoming shows, including the Colorado Governor’s Art Show, Windows to the Divine with Gallery 1261 in Denver, the California Art Club’s Gold Medal Exhibition, the Buffalo Bill Art Show in Cody, Wyoming, and a solo show at Astoria Gallery in Jackson, Wyoming.
contact informationjefflegg.com
representationAstoria Fine Art, Jackson, WY, astoriafineart.com.Illume Gallery West, Philipsburg, MT, illumegallerywest.com.Gallery 1261, Denver, CO, gallery1261.com.Ballard’s Fine Art, Sheridan, WY, ballardsfineart.com.
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