Leigh Ann Parrish

Bio

Leigh Ann Parrish is an artist, photographer, educator, adventurer, lover, North Carolinian, and dog mom.

I've been an artist all my life. I graduated from Appalachian State University in 2004 with a BS in Technology concentrated in Photography and Business.  I received my MFA from Western Carolina University in 2015 with a concentration in Installation Art and Photography.  I currently teach Foundational courses at Appalachian State University in the Department of Applied Design. My husband Kevin Freeman and I live in Ashe County, NC and have been creating together for over 20 years.  Prior to ASU, I taught at Goochland Middle School, Louisburg College, Western Carolina University, Lenoir Community College, and various workshops. I've exhibited regionally, nationally, and internationally in group shows over the past 30 years.

My work is constantly shifting and flowing as I embrace new technology and mediums that
express my ideas. As an Installation Artist my practice often incorporates connections to all five senses as a way of solidifying the experiences in the memory of the viewer.

Much of my work relates to time, memory, interaction, the body, and relationships. One of the primary mediums in my work is tea, used as a universal connection point for many people around the world, it is intended to create a sense of closeness and shared experience. My mediums are often dictated by the content of the work, and the chosen material is a reflection of the concept, not just a tool used to create the art, but to be seen as part of the idea and message behind the work.

I often incorporate dreams or other layered, fleeting concepts like memory that are often difficult to explain or convey. I use layers, veils, overlapping, marking, and other methods to create confusion, loss, or blur as a way of embracing these themes. Installations allow me to use any material to communicate with my audience and I greatly enjoy the freedom, fun, discovery, and challenges that come with new methods and materials. While I do build on ideas and create series' of work at times, most of the time each piece is different as I am constantly challenging myself to try new processes and learn new skills.

I hope to provide moments of remembering and a place and time to digest the past, present, and future through my art.