LEO GIELOW
Leo is a Brighton, MA based queer illustrator, tattoo apprentice and painter. They graduated from Massachusetts College of Art and Design in the spring of 2022 with a degree in illustration. Their work focuses on the intimacies of queer love and relationships with an unapologetic focus on the human form. While most of their time is devoted to learning the intricacies of tattooing under a mentor at Blvck Rose Tattoo, they still find the hours of each day to create. They also frequent local craft markets with their work and apparel.
Instagram: @mourningdoves
Website: lucygielow.com
Find this poster at THE HARVARD ED PORTAL
ARTIST Q&A
Born: Randolph, MA
Currently lives: Allston, MA
Title of artwork: Craft
What’s it about? In all honesty this piece spawned from just knowing the dimensions. I knew I wanted to create something to go on a postcard, so I opened a 4×6 canvas and went from there. At the time of creating the piece, I was frequenting my girlfriend’s ceramics studio and watching her work. To me there is a certain magic in sharing a space with someone you love, even if you’re not necessarily doing an activity together. It’s the sharing of physical space with one another that I hold so dearly. So- in a 4×6 frame, I wanted to compile the feeling of those moments of intimacy.
Where else can we find your work? Most of my work can be found through my portfolio and Instagram, but I also am apprenticing at Blvck Rose Tattoo in Hudson- for those interested in getting my work tattooed (as soon as I’m licensed!)
Where is your favorite public art piece in the area?Honestly, I adore the dozens of graffiti tags all throughout Allston/Brighton. Seeing a tag repeated brings a certain familiarity and warmth. Not the “traditional” public artwork, but one that has been practiced for decades.
Who is your favorite Boston-area artist to follow? Campbell McClean is an incredible contemporary painter
What’s your favorite way to spend a day off? Catching up on sleep!
What was your top song for 2021? What’s Wrong by half.alive
Favorite food spot in Allston, Brighton or the surrounding area? Union Café (the fresh squeezed orange juice specifically)
What have you learned about your creative practice in recent years? I’ve learned (mostly in my time spent at an art school) that art can’t really be taught past a certain degree. Once every artist reaches their own individual point in time, they then are able to manipulate their medium in whatever way they please. Rules are mere suggestions.
What is a piece of advice you would give to your past self as a young artist? When people tell you no- don’t listen. It’ll only slow you down.
What is your dream project to work on? I have always wanted to apply my love of large scale art and painting into a mural project. Bold line work, large scale and public works all seem up my alley
