Oil and mixed media on canvas

Works-in-progress / process, Work for sale

As with my earlier sculptural work, my paintings have continued to be about the materials and process. In my painting I look capture the immediacy of the medium and bring depth and character to an otherwise two-dimensional surface.

Figures and images I introduce bring their own narratives or allegory. The paintings evolve through the process of adding, removing, obscuring and refining. I work to find a resolution of content and rhythm… throwing paint about until a certain balance is achieved.

I have always been resistant to compromising art in order to be more accessible or marketable. My early work was about the creative process, no matter how temporary… and little of that work has survived; by design or otherwise.

Fast forward... I retired from my ‘day job’ at the start of 2025 and am happily back full-time in my studio, making art for art’s sake... so cliche, but true.

Paul Leavitt received a BFA from University of Washington in ceramic arts with a focus on sculpture, and an MA in plastic arts from San Jose State University (ie. ceramics and other pliable mixed media… not plastic!)

With one quarter remaining for an MFA degree, he opted out of art school and instead ventured on... moving to New York City in the early 1980s. There he found himself smack in the middle of the burgeoning ‘80s East Village art scene. In stark contrast to the laid-back West Coast funk movement of Seattle and the Bay Area, the East Village was alive with a vibrant, gritty energy, and raw, expressionistic works which had a profound impact on his art aesthetic.

While living and working in NYC his focus shifted from sculpture to painting (the last 3D work being shown at the East Village’s Civilian Warfare Gallery).

In subsequent years his work has been shown sporadically at best.

Returning to Seattle he made a decision in the early 1990’s to step out of the art fray and pursue a different career path, all the while however, maintaining a home studio and creating art at a slower pace.

Much of my work remains undated as it may be 'refined' over months, or years. It's a dynamic process that continues to evolve. I'll work on several canvases, both old and new, sharing recurring images and themes, or branching in new directions. My work is seldom planned out but instead a more spontaneous process. Finding the balance and completeness of the painting is always a challenge and surprise.

My studio is on the second floor up a single flight of stairs, with railing. Entry will be through our garage (ADA accessible) which will also have paintings on display.