We're thrilled to introduce y'all to new Well + Wonder artist Lea Moore! Lea is a formally trained artist and art educator based in Birmingham, Alabama, where she lives with her husband and their three boys. She earned her BFA in Art & Art Education from the University of Georgia and now teaches art, inspiring children to develop a lifelong love of creativity and self-expression. Drawing inspiration from the colors and beauty of Creation, Lea's work celebrates finding beauty in everyday moments and joy in unexpected places. Her signature style features peaceful color palettes, rich textures, subtle repetition of lines and shapes, and layered collage elements created with torn paper. Her debut collection "Planted by Water" launches tomorrow, but today y'all can learn a little bit more about the lady behind the paintbrush in our latest blog post, Pardon Me, Lea Moore!
What is currently on your nightstand?
Crossword puzzles (taking after my grandmother), a book called The Shellseekers, Every Moment Holy, and black and white wedding photos of my grandparents and parents.
Who is your biggest influence as an artist and why?
Growing up in a family of home builders starting with my Grandfather, I was always looking at plans, visiting job sites, and noticing interior design. And my Mom has a way of creating beauty in the home as well. So I have always been drawn to the way a home comes together creatively from its first initial drawings to the patterns in wallpapers, textures in fabrics, and collected art that fills the walls.
Tell us about your childhood. What is the most memorable moment as a young person?
My Mom and Dad always encouraged me to use what I have, and appreciate where we were—whether it be gifts or a home or a season or a relationship.
If you could only have one supply in your art studio, what would it be and why?
That changes with the season. Currently, I am enjoying painting with masking fluid on each paper piece. I have certain leanings but I pick up new things to try all the time.
What is your favorite room in your house? Describe it.
I almost always end up taking my artwork outside to my front porch to work. Neighbors show up. My boys sit on the steps or play football in the front yard. It has my childhood porch swing. I love being outside and it’s become a landing spot for everyone.
What is your biggest score online?
Not one thing stands out, but I search Facebook Marketplace for just about anything. I have found everything from antique chairs to light fixtures to old frames to our coffee table.
What is the benefit of buying art through a collective?
It is a trustworthy source to find art and a great way to be introduced to new artists.
What do you recommend for those that are new to buying original art?
As it is with everything in your house, you don’t want to buy something because it’s trendy or just to fill a space. You will tire of it quickly. If you find something that you love, you will enjoy it for a long time.
If you have the entire day to spend in an art museum, which one and why?
I only had a day in Paris on a trip and went to the Musey d’Orsay, full of impressionists and post-impressionists. I could’ve stayed much longer to see them all.
What is your favorite hotel and what makes it special?
It’s not a favorite hotel, but I have sweet memories of growing up and going to a little place my grandparents had in Seagrove Beach, Florida every Summer.
If you were a lipstick color would you be red, pink, or clear and why?
Clear, no surprise!
I can never get on a plane without....
a sweater and a good book.
How did you get into the world of art?
It can’t remember a time that I wasn’t sketching. During school or church, I was always drawing while listening and still do. Maybe when I was in 3rd grade, my parents encouraged art lessons. I continued learning through college and that interest continues in a variety of ways.
What do you do to relax?
I enjoy being outside. I love walking with friends. It helps me regain perspective after a hard day or check in with friends or work through a problem or be quiet when the world has been too loud.
When do you get the biggest surge of inspiration?
It could come anytime, and in a number of ways. After a recent thyroid surgery, friends brought food and flowers. Because I needed to rest, I started drawing the different flowers. In a hard season, it helped me to be thankful.
What is your idea of a date night? Dinner and a movie or dancing all night?
Birmingham has so many great spots to get away for a few hours. I really enjoy trying new things, but we love a little French restaurant called Chez Fon Fon.
Tell us about your favorite painting that you have created.
There’s no way to narrow it down to one. But my favorite paintings are the ones I give to people, and I’m able to see them enjoy them for years to come.
