Hello my artist family!
Today I’m so excited to introduce you to a wonderful artist from Colorado Springs, Colorado, Jeannie Leiva. Jeannie’s story is one I think so many of us can relate to because it’s all about holding onto a dream, even when life gets busy. And let me tell you, her dream of painting has been patiently waiting for its moment to shine—and shine it certainly has.
Jeannie’s love for art began when she was a little girl. Her mother encouraged her creativity with paint-by-number kits and all kinds of crafty treasures. Even then, she dreamed of painting on canvas, but like so many of us, life had other plans for a while.
Her career as a hotel manager took her all across the United States, and year after year she told herself, “When I retire, I’ll finally look into painting.” I have to smile at that because artists are famous for saying, “I’ll start someday.” The funny thing is, that creative spark never really goes away—it just waits patiently in the corner, tapping its foot.
Everything changed when Jeannie learned that her sister, Helen, was a lifetime member of a painting club. That discovery sparked a whole new level of excitement. She attended the Scottsdale Art Show with her sister and was thrilled to discover there were teachers and communities ready to help aspiring artists learn step by step.
And here’s my favorite part: Jeannie recently completed her 50th painting with Let’s Dabble. What an incredible milestone. From dreaming about painting as a child to creating fifty paintings of her own—that’s the kind of artistic journey that deserves a standing ovation.
When I asked what inspires her creativity most, Jeannie shared something fascinating. She feels like she sees the world in three dimensions, paying close attention to how light and shadow create depth and dimension. She loves exploring how darkening and lightening colors can transform a painting and bring it to life. And if there’s one subject she especially loves, it’s trees.
Honestly, I completely understand that. Trees have so much personality. Some stand tall and proud, while others look like they have stories they’ve been waiting hundreds of years to tell.
For her artwork submission, Jeannie chose something a little different—and I absolutely love it. Instead of selecting just one favorite painting, she shared a photo of the wall above her painting table, showcasing many of the pieces she has created. What I found so heartwarming is that everyone who sees her work tends to choose a different favorite. And when they do, she often gifts that painting to them.
That says so much about both her art and her generosity. It’s a beautiful reminder that art connects with each person differently. One painting may speak to one heart while another captures someone else’s imagination entirely. That’s part of the magic of creating.
When it comes to DabblePaints™, Jeannie’s reaction was simple and enthusiastic:
“Wow! is what I say! The thickness is unbelievable! I have never seen a paint that compares.”
I have to admit, hearing that never gets old. She’s even recommended DabblePaints™ to several of her painter friends, which means the world to me. There’s nothing better than artists sharing tools they genuinely love with other artists.
And when I asked what advice she would give someone just starting their painting journey, her answer was wonderfully encouraging:
“Try it. Listen to the process. Learn the process. Everyone is different. I would be happy to help you!”
I just love that spirit. There’s no gatekeeping there—just kindness, encouragement, and a willingness to help others grow. That’s exactly the kind of community we strive to build together. Every artist starts somewhere, and sometimes all it takes is one person saying, “You can do this,” to make all the difference.
Jeannie, thank you for sharing your story, your artwork, and your generous heart with our artist family. Your journey is proof that it’s never too late to follow a dream you’ve carried with you for years. From those childhood paint-by-number kits to your 50th completed painting, you’re inspiring all of us to keep creating, keep learning, and keep believing in what’s possible.
Keep creating, keep shining, and keep bringing more beauty into the world.
XO,
Jen
