Today we’d like to introduce you to Leigh Jansma.
Hi Leigh, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Everything started for me when I began studying Greek Mythology and Art History in my youth. These topics have always been essential to my artistic voice and how I communicate through my art. I’m especially drawn to the contrast between the struggles women face and the incredible power they exhibit despite these challenges. These stories often connect with nature and the origins of life – a journey women can both grieve and rejoice in, embodying these themes through their own experiences.
After a time of photographing Hollywood nightlife, I moved to Austin and was lucky enough to fall into the local modelling/photography circles. Here is where I met amazing individuals to work with and found the Sekrit Theater, a photographer’s dream that eventually turned into my wedding venue.
For the last several years I have been lucky enough to host my photography sessions in my home studio, which I have dressed in a baroque, romantic style. My main objective is to work with my subjects to express a wide range of universal emotions: from wrath, hopelessness, contempt and despair, to faith, fortitude, and resilience; all while recognizing vulnerability.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I’ve faced my share of difficulties in the past decade but finding this artistic outlet has been life changing for me. I think one thing that ties us all together as humans is the well of experiences and emotions we all feel. From one story to the next, sorrowful or joyful, our ability to sympathize with others is what keeps us connected.
My way to share these emotions is through the storytelling in my photography. I connect with my subjects by talking through life, loss, and those hard little stories we keep in the back of our minds, often deemed too uncomfortable to share.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in Baroque and Mythologically-inspired Portrait photography both in my studio and in nature. I’m known for my calm, primarily female-led portraiture that celebrates quiet little moments.
I’m most proud of the connections I get to create with my models during my sessions and the sense of pride I get to share with them once a project is complete. I love reconnecting others with nature, dark, romantic tones, and at times, self-acceptance.
What are your plans for the future?
I’m looking forward to finding more artists for future collaborations as well as delving into self-portraits, an area I have avoided for most of my artistic career. I feel right now women have a lot to say and capturing those feelings and sentiments are crucial. I plan to continue honoring the importance of nature, self-reflection, and art.
Ars Gratia Artis, Art for the Sake of Art.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.leighjansmaartistry.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leighjansmaartistry
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leighjansmaartistry/
- Other: https://www.vogue.com/photovogue/photographers/163889
