Artist Articles: Leah Marchand
Leah Marchand: Telling Stories Through Art
For Leah Marchand, art has always been a language of its own. A Baton Rouge artist with roots in New Orleans, Leah describes art as her “first language”—a way of expressing emotions, memories, and stories long before she had the words to describe them. Her paintings are rooted in the belief that art can cross borders, overcome language, and give people a way to share the stories that matter most.
Leah’s connection to South Louisiana is woven throughout her work. Born in New Orleans and raised in Baton Rouge, she draws inspiration from the places, people, landscapes, and experiences that shape the region. One of her signature pieces features a map of New Orleans set against the back of an alligator—a distinctly South Louisiana image that combines personal memory with a shared cultural experience. Leah recalls seeing her first alligator in her uncle’s driveway after a major storm, a memory that became part of the story behind the painting.
Storytelling is at the center of Leah’s approach, particularly through her commissions. She loves taking a client’s memories, colors, locations, and experiences and transforming them into something visual and deeply personal. A painting might include dots marking where someone grew up, went to school, or lives today, creating a visual history that allows the collector to share their own story with family and friends.
Leah considers herself a “yes artist.” While painting is her primary medium, she is open to just about any creative challenge if she can find a way to bring the idea to life. From traditional canvases to large-scale painted cement sculptures, she enjoys exploring whatever form best serves the story. Her preferred medium is acrylic, which allows her to work quickly and build the bold colors and textures that characterize her work. She occasionally works in oils as well, but appreciates acrylics for their faster drying time.
Rather than limiting herself to one defined niche, Leah allows her surroundings and experiences to continually inspire her. She might see an unexpected image in a painting hanging in her home, notice a color combination that sparks an idea, or encounter something in everyday life that she suddenly wants to bring to the canvas. Her work evolves alongside her curiosity, allowing her to explore everything from abstract figures to distinctly Louisiana imagery.
Being part of The Foyer has given Leah a place within a creative community that celebrates that variety. She appreciates the gallery’s thoughtfully curated collection and the range of artists, designers, and makers represented under one roof. Whether someone is searching for a wedding or baby shower gift, looking for inspiration while building a home, or searching for a piece of original art that speaks to them, Leah believes The Foyer offers something for everyone.
Most importantly, she loves being surrounded by fellow creatives who genuinely want to see one another succeed. For Leah, that sense of community is an extension of what she believes art should do: connect people, start conversations, preserve memories, and tell stories.
Leah welcomes commissions and loves the opportunity to tell someone else’s story through her work. Her message to those who connect with her art is simple: engage with it, share it, and help others discover it. Every like, comment, and share helps an artist’s story travel a little farther.
Visit The Foyer at 3655 Perkins Road, Baton Rouge, Monday through Saturday 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday 12 to 5 PM. To see more of Leah's work, see her alligators and local maps paintings.
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