Out of all the artists participating in the Town's Bell box mural program, Jody Leamen has perhaps the most visible display.
Entitled Hidden Beauty, her mural is located front and centre on Guelph Street, on the lawn adjacent to the Georgetown Market Place parking lot.
Much like all the other artists beautifying the Bell boxes, her work depicts a nature scene. But there's one crucial difference - stylized horses are a focal point.
"My Bell box has a horse because I'm in the equestrian community," Leamen said about her inspiration.
The Georgetown resident used horses in her work to also allude to Halton's large equestrian community.
Despite being the daughter of famed artist Lynne Schumacher, Leamen did not seriously take up art until just a few years ago in 2020. Her job and what she describes as "COVID stress" pushed her "to look for something to make [myself] busy."
Since then, her journey of practice, honing and experimentation has taught her that anyone can become an artist at any time. She credits her mother with instilling a can-do attitude in her, where "if you want to do it, you just have to practice."
"The only person stopping you is you," Leamen said.
She has a simple rebuttal for those who dismiss her advice by calling her talented. She does not see skills - her own or anyone else's - as something to be born with, but rather something anyone can work hard for.
"Actually, I'm a very practised artist. I've done well over 120 pieces since the beginning of 2020," she said.
It's not unusual for imposter syndrome - an inability to believe one's success is deserved - to follow close behind when a person decides to pursue a creative lifestyle. Leamen points to social media's power to curate one's image to the world and being a thief of joy when people compare themselves to others.
"All you see is good stuff. People don't post the crappy work," she explained. "You are on your own journey and that's what you have to think. You are the one who decides whether you get better at it or not."
Leamen's accolades are not limited to the Bell box mural. She has been published in art magazines like the American-based Color. Having her work on display at the Helson Gallery and the Sisnett lobby round out her local achievements.
For more examples of her work - including commissions - visit jodyleamenart.com.
