About the Rwanda Series

“Each picture,” says Mr. Leonard, “is a story that the heart needs to feel and the world needs to be told.” Hence, the series of images that make up the Rwanda series tell tragic truths that manifest as triumphant stories.

 In addition to the triumphant stories in his series, Mr. Leonard aspires to create realistic images of the participants in life that often go unnoticed or misrepresented. This, he believes, is captured by drawing the yearnings of the subjects he studies. His commitment to acknowledging the invisible and honoring the misrepresented is manifested in a variety of paintings which include, Sad Eyes and David.

 Mr. Leonard received Second Place in Metropolitan Seattle Urban League’s Art Exhibition in April of 2000 for Store keeper. Prior to this year’s award he received Honorable Mention for paintings which include Tears of Sadness and The Movement.

"The Little Refugees" (23x17) The first painting in this series acknowledges that we are in this world together and that war anywhere endangers everyone.
"Matthew 19:14" (21x30) The second painting in this series explores the simple realities and vibrancy in a state of emergency.
"Sad Eyes" (30x17) The third painting from this series proves that eyes are the windows of the soul and that some questions will never have answers.
"David" (36x24) The fourth painting in this series shows that for some, war is the giant to be slain and survival is evidence of victory.
"The Storekeeper" (22x17) The fifth and final painting in the series celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit in the aftermath of war and a changing Rwanda.