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Issue link: https://digital.miamilivingmagazine.com/i/1295431
After arriving in the United States at the age of 15, an ambitious Mazo learned to speak English and earned a scholarship to an art institute. She later enrolled in acting classes after a move to Los Angeles to become an actress and star in movies. Taking what she's learned from modeling and acting, Mazo continues to evolve artistically and emotionally. Now as a wife and mother, Mazo says, "I feel the best way to express my internal feelings is by painting. Once I start painting, I get into a zone that allows me to freely express myself." "The Pop Ar t Movement was inspired to challenge traditional fine art and is characterized as using commercial imagery that is removed from it's usual context. Found objects, the use of abstract impressionism, and combinations of disparate materials like fibers and paint pushed the boundaries of art and art appreciation." Creative Inspiration Mazo didn't always have the direction and drive she displays today. "One day I was sitting at the table studying, and I naturally started drawing the Star of David. I noticed the perfect angles of the star and thought it would be great if I could incorporate prayers and create a work of art." Her early days in art school and her faith led to her unique pairing of religious icons, pop icons, and current events. She takes inspiration from pop art pioneers like Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, Red Grooms, and Roy Lichtenstein to take identifiable pop culture references but adds a twist of fun and sexiness. Mazo's debut collection under the brand Art by Leidy, "Soldiers Hearts Fight for Love," was inspired by current events of wars and fighting around the world. Instead of being overwhelmed, she "created a collection to support the troops as they fight for peace and love." These 3D sculpture wall art pieces reflect the real conflict between wars and our shared love for all people. "I try to make each piece as a celebration of life that makes you wonder and question the characteristics," says Mazo. Always working to improve her craft, Mazo has "been doing my own research and learning as much as I can about my passion and becoming successful as an artist." Combining her past successes with new techniques, Mazo is creating unique and contemporary 3D sculptures. While Mazo's "Teddy Bear Puzzle" uses wood and paint, her KAWS collection uses resin. Both are examples of her creative use of different materials. Collaboration and Exhibits Mazo exhibited at the 2019 Art Basel in South Beach Miami. Even before the 2020 Art Basel event was cancelled, Mazo was working hard at the business side and selling her works to collectors and the public through fairs, shows, and her website. Never one to underestimate the importance of creating connections with her audience, Mazo says, "Art Basel and art shows have helped me meet new artists for collaborations and collectors." Art shows are not only for selling her work but also provide opportunities to network with other artists. When asked about collaborations Mazo says, "I think collaborations are an ideal way of learning and discovering new ideas from other artists that you never knew before." She says they are an opportunity to, "create magic and inspire one another." This magic is carried over into her collections and commissioned work. Mazo has a strong collector following, inspiring her collectors to see "things they have not noticed before or something that did not catch their eye. Every day they look at my pieces, I hope they discover and learn new interpretations and meanings that I have tried to convey with my work." Mazo capitalizes on her social media to expand her market as the pool of galleries supporting new artists shrinks along with opportunities for exhibitions. Mazo notes, "Miami's art scene is actually booming." The Future Mazo says, "One of the biggest challenges I am faced with as an artist is finding a unique style that instantly separates me and recognizes me as an artist. I hope I get to accomplish this with my Teddy Bear Puzzle Collection." Not one to wait for recognition or inspiration, Mazo's latest creative obsession is with creating 3D sculptures out of a variety of materials. "This is something new, and not a lot of artists are doing it. That is why I have been spending a lot of my time and effort designing these pieces that range anywhere from 4 inches to 7 feet in height." For more info, visit https://artbyleidy.com/ Follow Leidy Mazo at www.instagram.com/leidymazo "All of my work is emotionally inspired, which is why each painting has a different meaning and style."