Lisa Gleim, an internationally acclaimed artist, invites us to experience the world through her eyes, where the stillness and movement of landscapes and animals come to life in vibrant pastels. With a career deeply rooted in her passion for art and a keen eye for detail, Lisa’s work is a striking example of her unique approach to capturing the beauty and essence of nature.
In Lisa’s own words, her career offers her the luxury of hours spent observing her subjects in their natural habitats, giving her the chance to slow down and truly notice her surroundings. This immersion in nature allows her to experience the ever-changing light and atmosphere, which she expertly translates onto her canvases. Her art not only reflects the external beauty of the world but also delves into the emotions and narratives that unfold within it.
Lisa’s journey as an artist began at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, the oldest art school in the United States. It was here that she honed her craft and developed a deep appreciation for the medium of pastels. Her training at PAFA laid the foundation for her remarkable mark-making abilities, which are a hallmark of her work. The anatomical precision and attention to detail she achieves in her pastel creations speak to her dedication and skill.
Lisa’s chosen medium, pastels, gives her access to an endless spectrum of colors that she can deftly draw with on her panels. The process of layering these marks is akin to drawing, rather than painting, as she seamlessly blends her pigments to create a rich tapestry of colors and textures. It’s a medium that allows her to bring life to her subjects with remarkable authenticity.
Lisa initially embarked on her artistic journey as a commissioned portrait artist. Her approach was to focus entirely on the individual’s physical characteristics and personality, without any background distractions. However, when she turned her attention to wildlife, her art took on a more narrative quality. Each piece began to tell a story, drawing the viewer into a world of natural drama.
In her wildlife works, you might find a bear delving into a hive in search of honey, while bees circle overhead, or a cunning fox recognizing a trap set by scheming ravens. Lisa’s art captures not just the beauty of these creatures but also the intricate stories that unfold in the wild.
Lisa’s creative journey continues to evolve as she explores the majestic creatures of the African savanna. Her first study in this new realm appeared in “Striving for Perfection: Celebrating 20 Years of Goodwood,” a book produced for The International Club of Rolls Royce and Bentley Enthusiasts. In this book, Lisa’s art stands alongside the luxury goods, demonstrating the high regard in which her work is held.
Lisa’s art has graced the walls of various museums and exhibitions. Recently, her work was on display at the C.M. Russell Museum in Montana, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma, Brookgreen Gardens in South Carolina, and the National Museum of Wildlife in Wyoming. She also had an upcoming solo show in 2024 at the Customs House Museum in Tennessee.
Lisa Gleim is also a Master Circle Member of the International Association of Pastel Societies and a Master Signature Member of American Women Artists. In fact, she serves as the vice-president of American Women Artists, an organization that champions women in the art world.
Living in Montana and Georgia, Lisa is represented by several galleries, including McLarry Fine Art, Lovetts Gallery, Paderewski Fine Art, Floyd Fine Arts, Beverly McNeil Gallery, and Portraits Inc.
Lisa Gleim’s art is a vivid mosaic that weaves together the beauty and drama of the natural world. Her dedication to the art of pastels and her ability to capture the essence of wildlife in her work is a clear reflection of her skill and passion. Lisa Gleim invites us to slow down, observe, and connect with the world around us, reminding us of the beauty that exists in every moment.
