Diane Leon - Abstraction gives me a sense of freedom. I grew up in New York City. In 1970 Spain became my passion. The vast openness of the sky, sea, and light had a profound affect upon me. The paintings I create each year reflect memories and the Mediterranean life around the sea.

There is no preconceived idea. As I work, color and form create a feeling. From that point on the painting takes on a life of its own.

My formal training began with four years at the Art Students League where I met my artist/husband, John Ferdico. I also studied color theory with Wolf Kahn at the National Academy of Design and other New York art schools. A summer in the Pyrenees in Spain was a unique experience.

I have been teaching at New York University, SCPS adult degree division since 1995. In addition to that I also write articles and personal essays for Manhattan Arts International, Art Calendar Magazine, commonties.com etc.

Most recent news: My work, "Cuenca Light" has been on OvationTV from October 07 - February 08. It was also featured in Art Calendar in January 08 article by Kim Hall, "Seize the TV." My work is also in the US Embassy in Lima, Peru as part of the Art in Embassy Progam.

"Queens Artists' Work Hang in US Embassies" by Marianne Nash, July 3, 2008 feature story with artwork.

May 20, 09 participated in article in The New York Times, "Tight Times Loosen Creativity" also photographed with art in slide show by Robin Pogrebin.