Bradley, who usually goes by Brad because, as the story goes, the only time he was called Bradley was when he was in trouble, and that was often.
He was born and raised just outside of Chicago, and moved to the city proper to attend The Illinois Institute of Technology. After realizing he wanted to pursue his dream of being a painter instead of an industrial designer, he transferred to The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (his dream school) to study drawing and painting.
After graduating, without the funds to rent a professional studio space, he began painting in whatever apartment he was renting at the time. He painted part-time for years, exhibiting occasionally, but didn’t get serious about his work until he moved into his first studio, located in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood. It was a very large and rustic space in an old Model-T factory.
He eventually had the good fortune of having a renowned Chicago interior designer discover his work. One day Brad invited his new friend to his studio and was pleased when the designer asked to borrow a batch of his paintings for several days. Not expecting much to come of it, Brad however consented. A few days later, his friend called and said he had sold all of his work. Needless to say, Brad was ecstatic. That was just before the pandemic, and they’ve worked together ever since.
Having formed quite an harmonious working relationship, together they found a beautiful studio space in the Ravenswood area in which to work together.
Brad developed his technique by studying other artists' work and doing lots of experimentation. Currently, he’s interested in combining a variety of techniques and imagery, first creating digital collages to create his compositions.
His childhood was somewhat chaotic and unpredictable, so for solace, he developed his inner life as a way to cope. This is how he discovered a vast world of art and imagination.
As far as inspiration, Brad has wide ranging interests including early modern painters, German Expressionism, and contemporary artists such as Gerhart Richter, Michael Borremans, and Mark Tennant, among others.
When not working on his art, Brad enjoys spending time with friends and his cats, not always in that order.
Bradley Leslie Art • bradleslieart.com • 312.497.1454