If you’re ingrained in the local art and culture scene, this newcomer to the Newcastle scene wouldn’t have gone amiss, but for those a little slow to the art scene, you’ll be excited to hear about the arrival of LEDA Gallery in Newcastle’s West End.

Brought to us by two creatives, Holly Wilson and Aleesha Hardie, LEDA Gallery came to life in August last year with their group exhibition, DAWN, after four months of working behind the scenes. Now, after more than six months of operating, we can’t imagine LEDA not being a part of our local creative scene.

The pair both have a rich history paired with experience and education in the creative sector. Holly, a visual art and creative writing major, holds a connection with abstract expressionism and minimalism which she incorporates into her individual practice, and now also within the gallery.

Growing up remotely around Australia, Holly had the opportunity to experience life out of the usual structures, nurturing her natural desires for exploration, curiosity, and creativity. Visiting her grandmother’s antiques and art dealership in Waterloo was where her love for art and culture truly started to take shape.

Aleesha, growing up in rural NSW is trained in abstract expressionism and all areas of classical painting. A student of the Collingwood, Victoria-based private art school, LCI Collge, and a fourth-generation female artist, is qualified with a Bachelor of Design Art majoring in Fine Art and submajoring in film making and photography. 

Growing a strong career across the international music scene as a freelance videographer and photographer, and growing her interest in abstract expressionism painting, this multi-talented artist turned to acrylics and canvas during COVID lockdowns in Melbourne before relocating to Newcastle.

The women met through a mutual friend where their mutual interests, love, and intrigue for the creative sector came to life. Both having had plans to do so over the years, but never taking that next step and biting the bullet, it was their shared connection that put the wheels in motion.

“We shared an instant connection and an alignment in our interests and goals. So, that day we looked at the premises on the market and signed the lease. We had the keys a few days later and haven’t looked back. It was one of those rare moments when a huge leap just feels right and continues to make sense.”

The modern contemporary commercial gallery space is located in Newcastle West right near The Interchange and The Store on Hunter St. The goal of LEDA Gallery is to showcase national, international, local emerging, and accomplished artists as well as procuring a space for the community to celebrate the arts and bringing culture to Newcastle’s West.

The name, LEDA, pulls inspiration from the Greek Mythology story, Leda and the swan, that was later composed by Leonardo da Vinci. The girls also use the word as an acronym for Leading Edge Design + Art.

Continually having a rotating selection of exhibitions on show, the girls also boast Drink & Draw sessions. The immersive experience, based on classic nude life drawing subjects, navigates through an array of mediums and techniques including charcoal, graphite, pencil, acrylic, sepia ink, oil pastel, and sanguine.

“We have put a lot of thought into creating a perfect evening of art and atmosphere with delicious refreshments and a glass of wine. We have created the classes so that we can accommodate those who are experienced or first-timers.

“It’s LEDA’s take on the fun of a classic drink and draws but with a classy twist that creates a community that is respectful of both the art itself and our wonderful life models.”

Whilst the new gallery space has become a staple in the roving local exhibition space, LEDA plans to launch their next group show, BASE, from 6-26^th April with the opening night kicking it all with an official celebratory party on Saturday 9^th April from 6pm-9pm.

“We are showcasing an innovatively curated group of unique local sculpture artists. The focus of the show is the function of the BASE and the form constructed from there, an inquiry into the conceptual structure or entity on which something draws or depends. We’re taking the eye from our gallery walls and drawing them to the floor.”

Whether you plan on heading along to the upcoming group show, or are an avid gallery browser, make sure to keep LEDA Gallery on your radar. 

Where: LEDA Gallery | 2-3/850 Hunter St, Newcastle West
When: 6-26 Apr 2022
More Info: click here