Seizing the Opportunity, Leisa Collins becomes an Opportunity Arts Affiliate

Leisa Collins, a native of New Zealand and third generation fine artist, has carved a unique niche for herself as an acclaimed architectural artist specializing in paintings of homes and historic buildings. Her passion is to capture the cultural diversity and history of architecture in all corners of the United States & throughout the world. She strives to raise awareness about the need to preserve and restore the legacy of architecture rather than indiscriminately tearing it down. Passionate about architecture and travel, she refused the confines of formal art training and instead honed her craft while traveling the world as a full time artist. Nomads at heart, Leisa and her husband Bruce have lived in all regions of the US. Though currently based in St. Louis, MO, they are always eagerly awaiting their next adventure. 

Leisa’s work has been featured in many prominent publications such as The New York Times, The Huffington Post, The Los Angeles Times, The Oregonian, and The San Antonio Press.  Utilizing her fine eye toward detail, deep respect toward the featured locations, and charismatic storytelling about the subjects of her art, Leisa has created a high demand for her unique portraits. In 2013, she established the Leisa Collins Historic Preservation Award to pay tribute to exceptional individuals committed to saving and restoring old buildings across the country. Leisa, being an expert on the crossroads of art and architecture has been a featured guest on prominent and pertinent podcasts such as The Living Artist, Superfine Art Fair, The Art Biz, and
True Tales from Old Houses.

Thirty-five years ago, after marrying and settling into a new country, Leisa became fascinated by the people and cultures defining architecture throughout the country’s history and geography. She was subsequently inspired to drive from coast to coast and paint original portraits of homes in every state. Her selections were numerous but eventually she selected 650 of these works of art to incorporate along with the accompanying stories, to publish in her book. The compilation, entitled “Hand-Painted Homes: An Architectural Artist’s Pen and Watercolor,” was published in May of 2021 and highlights the captivating architecture and styles of homes in all fifty states and Washington D.C.

Be sure to check out Leisa’s work on her website www.leisacollins.com 
Her Instagram @leisacollinsart and
Her Facebook page Leisa Collins Art