Plein Air Artist Spotlight: Sparky LeBold

Plein Air Spotlight: Sparky LeBold

Since graduating from Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California (1986), Sparky LeBold has been inducted into Who’s Who in American Art (2002), has held 11 solo shows across America and in Europe, and is even recognized as a National Artist of Portugal, where townspeople have lovingly nicknamed him “Picasso Americano.”

LeBold’s oil paintings are inspired by the beauty he has experienced during his international travels. His ability to translate what we see in nature onto canvases large and small has resonated with corporate and private collectors for the past 30 years, as well as fine art magazines.

LeBold is said to be a mysterious and passionate man. When he moved to Colorado Springs in the mid-1990’s and found that the art community felt a bit stalled, he founded Cottonwood Art Academy. Cottonwood became an epicenter of creative collaboration, and after LeBold’s departure, it became Cottonwood Center for the Arts. LeBold has enjoyed living in the seaside villages of Portugal for the past decade, and many of his captivating seascapes are inspired by the villages he calls home.

“Sparky’s work is full of emotion and spirit, reflecting his desire to communicate and raise awareness for the beauty in nature that we may overlook,” says his representatives. “His images hold your attention, touch your soul, and leave an imprint that lingers. Not to mention, he has a sweet ponytail.”

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