The Alchemy web site on Levity.com
Alchemical artwork of Paul LeBlanc
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Within my work I have developed a personal interconnecting system of symbolic and metaphorical structures. I use esoteric symbolism, new physical theory, and comparative psychology to create this interconnecting system. By combining these disciplines I hope to create a common context in which all are welcome to participate. This seems to be an activity of alchemy, a subject of study for both philosophers and physicists.
I study alchemy as a source for artmaking. Its symbolism and metaphor provides for me a rich source of inner discovery and reflection. I am especially fond of Carl Jung who has done so much work and grounded research. I also read about the new sciences such as particle physics. A book in particular might be The Conscious Universe: Part and Whole in Modern Physical Theory (by Mentas Kafatos and Robert Nadeau).
I gather my collection of objects from secondhand stores, dumpsites and salvage yards. When gathering these things I respond to shape texture or use. I couple these objects with painted images to build on a concept or theme. More unique arrangements develop through an improvisational and intuitive process that creates a common connection. Larger themes evolve from these connections which build a network of support. This synergy produces a complex symbology that draws on a mind pool of thought. The artists/alchemist's poetic world is a microcosm of God's lyrical universe. -Paul LeBlanc
PAUL LEBLANC
511 HUEY P. LONG AVE.
GRETNA, LA. 70053 I currently reside in the New Orleans area, showing my works at Sylvia Schmidt Gallery, 400-A Julia st., New Orleans, La. I teach painting and graphic design courses on occasion at a local college as well as undertaking illustration work on a freelance basis. I can be contacted through the address above or the gallery.
EDUCATION
1995 University of Florida, Gainesville, Fl. M. F. A., Painting
1992 University of Southwestern Louisiana, Lafayette, La., B. F. A.,
Painting
1999 Louisiana Arts Council grant recipient
1997 Exceptional merit award, George E. Ohr Arts and Cultural Center, Biloxi, Ms.
1997 First prize, "Spiritual in Art", Fra Angelico Foundation, Chicago Illinois
1994 Liquitex "Excellence in Art", University award recipient RECENT EXHIBITIONS
1998 "Ghost of Cornell", Contemporary Arts Center, New Orleans, La.
1997 "Art Wave" George E. Ohr Arts and Cultural Center, Biloxi, Ms.
1997 "Spiritual in Art", Fra Angelico Foundation, Chicago Illinois
1997 "7th Ann. Mixed Media Exhibition", Slidell, La.
1996 "20th Anniversary Exhibit", Contemporary Arts Center, New Orleans, La.
1996 "Southeastern Sculpture Invitational", S. L. U. University Gallery, Hammond, La.
1996 "Alchemical studies" Two-person show, Sylvia Schmidt Gallery, New Orleans, La.
1995 Faculty Show, Loyola University, New Orleans, La.
1995 "Art For Arts Sake", Group show, Sylvia Schmidt Gallery, New Orleans, La.
1995 "Louisiana Open", Contemporary Arts Center, New Orleans, La.
1994 "Group Of Five", Atlantic Center for the Arts, New Symerna Beach, Fl.
1994 "Alchemical Studies" , Focus Gallery, University of Florida, Gainesville, Fl. GALLERY REPRESENTATION
Sylvia Schmidt Gallery, 400-A Julia st., New Orleans, La.