Lesley Bowden Stewart Site

Lesley Bowden Stewart

American Mixed Media Artist & Painter

“Lying under the weight of my Grandmother’s patchwork quilt also known as a “crazy quilt” is a favorite memory of mine. I like to think of my work like the crazy quilt, a tapestry pulling the bits and pieces of life together. The soft and the bold colors, the textures of the papers and fabrics, the variety of marks, the loose and tightness of paint brush strokes coming together like a quilt to keep warm memories, or tell a story and communicate with kindred souls. My goal is to create art that makes a personal connection and also communicates my love for nature and tattered worn things from the past.”

About

I was born and raised in rural Sampson County, North Carolina where I live with my family and work at a local middle school sharing my passion for art making with my students. Picasso once said, “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” My day job is to foster a love for art in our children so they remember that love even in adulthood and continue to create and respect creation.

I completed my degree in Art Education from Barton College in 2005 and I have nearly twenty years of professional experience teaching and creating original works of art. My goal is to continue to share my passion and develop a body of work that represents the crazy quilt of life.

Selected Works

2024- Buddy’s Blue Boy

2024 – Suey

2024 -Bullrider

2024- Grandma’s Garden

2024- Morning Glory

2024- Red, White, and Ole Blue

2023 – Oh’ Buoy

2023 – Summer Treasure

2011– Neighbors

2015 - Red Handed

EarlY Works

2005-Honduras

2005- Atmosphere

2005-Home

Junk Journals

“My interest in mixed media, bookmaking, and the influence of other artists led me to the discovery of junk journals. My junk journals are made from recycled items like discarded library books, old papers, remnants, items that might have been thrown away or forgotten. I love the worn surfaces, rough edges, and the fading of ink. I like to make something new while still respecting the old. “