BACKSTREET GALLERY

Lederle and Fleagle Featured at Backstreet for May

 

            Digital surrealist Tom Lederle and author Judy Fleagle team-up for an interesting combination of the abstract and reality. Their reception will be held on Saturday, May 11, 3-5 p.m.at Backstreet Gallery, 1421 Bay Street, during the Second Saturday Gallery Tour.

            After a number of years using IT skills in his career, Tom Lederle now translates those concepts to create what he refers to as “Digital Surrealism.”

            Based on original photographs and digital images, Lederle manipulates ordinary scenes or found objects and digitally transforms them into extraordinary images, which often evoke a moody or unearthly interpretation.

            Frustrated by the lack of effective computer-based drawing tools, Lederle is developing a “hybrid digital” process.  Once the image is transferred to canvas, he uses a good old paintbrush and acrylic paint to further enhance the image. His new book, Journey From Nerd to Artist, introduces his innovative processes.

            Still experimenting with his “hybridization” processes, Lederle starts with a scan or photo, he then uses software programs for a base image. To complete his work, he may add collage, brush on acrylics or use other multimedia effects resulting in his unique art.

            Lederle’s advice: “No matter what your age or station in this world, creating and enjoying art helps keep life exciting and meaningful.”

           Judy Fleagle didn’t start out as an author. She taught 2nd grade for five years and 1st grade for 17 years in California and then worked as an editor/writer at Oregon Coastand Northwest Travelmagazines for 21 years.

           In 2010, she embarked on a third career as an author. She wrote Crossings: McCullough’s Coastal Bridges(2011), The Crossings Guide to Oregon’s Coastal Spans(2013), Around Florence(2014, history 1876-present), and Devil Cat and Other Colorful Animals I Have Known(2015) about rescue animals that became great pets––eventually.

           A fifth book, The Oregon Coast Guide to the UNEXPECTED––that which is odd, unusual or quirkycame out in December 2018. More than 500 copies sold in the first four months. It covers 26 locales that made Fleagle take a second look during her years as a magazine editor and say, “Who’d a thunk it!” Some locales are man-made, others created by nature and a few show nature in action.

            Fleagle enjoys her life as an author. She keeps busy and stays out of trouble.