[ot-caption title=”Leo Pernia working on his newest project using water colors. (via Sabine Katsoulos, senior)”]

This week, Type One sat down with Pine Crest senior, Leo Pernia. Leo creates amazing artwork using two mediums: color pencils and watercolor paint. His passion for art started at a young age and has now become a form of relaxation for him. In this interview, Leo opens up about what he’s learned from art and how he will carry this knowledge with him. [spacer height=”20px”]

T1: How old were you when you started doing art? [spacer height=”20px”]

Leo: I was six years old when I began creating art. [spacer height=”20px”]

T1: What’s your favorite type of art? [spacer height=”20px”]

Leo: I would say a mix between pop art and realism. [spacer height=”20px”]

T1: What’s your favorite art piece? [spacer height=”20px”]

Leo: The Great Wave because of its equal simplicity and equal realistic representation of nature. It’s relaxing and full of action in the same image. [spacer height=”20px”]

T1: Why do you enjoy art? What’s your favorite thing about it? [spacer height=”20px”]

Leo: I like expressing myself through art, and it relaxes me. [spacer height=”20px”]

T1: What is some important knowledge you’ve gained from art? [spacer height=”20px”]

Leo: Messages can be delivered in many different ways, and visually is always my preference. [spacer height=”20px”]

T1: How will you use art for the rest of high school? [spacer height=”20px”]

Leo: I try to help the summer programs, and I’m the president of the Art Club, where we try to do art themed projects to help the community. [spacer height=”20px”]

T1: What do you hope people will take away from your work? [spacer height=”20px”]

Leo: I hope they’ll try to understand my messages and take them as personally as they want as well as finding relief in my work. [spacer height=”20px”]

T1: What inspires you when you do art? [spacer height=”20px”]

Leo: When I was a kid, I liked Disney a lot. I was inspired by how an image can portray so many different emotions.

He continues to be inspired by visual art, and will continue to make pieces that can inspire viewers.