Artist Spotlight – Herb and Allyson Leonhard
As part of the beautification and visioning projects in Historic Downtown Prosser we’ve purchased 11 fiberglass ponies to be painted by local artists and placed throughout our historic downtown corridor. These ponies have been sponsored by local businesses, organizations and individuals.
We’d like to introduce you to the artists involved in this exciting project!
At what age did you begin to paint and what was your inspiration?
Herb: I think from about the 6th grade on it was clear that I was going to be some kind of artist.
Allyson: I was drawing and painting for as long as I can remember. I started as soon as I learned to hold a pencil. I mostly drew horses, I’ve always loved them.
What do you like best about painting?
Herb: It’s the best means I have to express myself, also, I like getting my hands dirty.
Allyson: It is a wonderful way to relax, the world just goes away when I’m really into it.
What drew you to this project and what have you learned from this project?
Herb: It’s unlike anything I’ve done before and it seemed like a lot of fun.
Allyson: Well, the horses of course! It was really fun coming up with the concept and putting it on a horse.
What is something you want people to know about you? About your work?
Herb: My work is mostly inspired by 19th & 20th Century storybook illustration and I try to hold onto the magic around us.
Allyson: I love nature and animals, I take a lot of photos around the area and often paint somewhat traditional landscapes.
Where can we find your art?
We have painted murals together at the Wine Country Villa on the back of their mailboxes and also a train garage door across from there. The walls of The Princess Theatre, The left wall of the Horse Heaven Saloon and several in the Tri-cities. Four are on Adventures Underground.
Also on our website and social media.
…and at a renaissance faire near you
