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Current Artwork

As we delve into history, we uncover pieces of ourselves—connections that bring understanding. A photo, a document, a letter—each weaves a story that makes the past feel more human, beyond mere remnants. This year, my goal is to tell the stories of our identities. Through shared symbolism, these narratives emerge in expression, tension, and an overwhelming sense of knowing.

LeanneFortney_Teddy Bear Picnic.png

Teddy Bear Picnic reflects the feeling that life's expectations can sometimes feel out of reach. It challenges the prescribed notion of being ‘adult’—as if we’re supposed to instinctively know what that means. We’re often raised by young adults who are, in many ways, still finding their own way, passing down their limited understanding. As we grow, we spend much of our lives unlearning those errors, longing for the simplicity and freedom of a more carefree time.

Teddy Bear Picnic

Oil on Canvas, 48"x36"

Artwork 2024

This year my goal was to foster a vibrant connection between the artist, the viewer, and society, creating a shared space where we all feel seen, heard, and supported in our collective experience. This has become my mission.

My current collection is based on nominative determinism (aptronym), which is the theory that a person's name can have a significant role in determining their life choices or behavior, such as choosing a profession that aligns with their name. In this instance, the title is a reflection of the name being influenced by their life choices or behavior.

Click the images below to expand each painting to learn more about the title and aptronym.

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© 2025 Leanne Fortney. All Rights Reserved.
All content, including artwork,
images, text, and design elements, is the intellectual property of Leanne Fortney. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or use of any material is prohibited without prior written consent.

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