Most people not familiar with artists who paint on canvas may envision one of two stereotypes when mentioned: the brooding, paint-splattered eccentric lost in chaotic creative turmoil, or the serene outdoorsy painter with an easel in a peaceful park.
Faith Leskowitz defies both stereotypes. Yet she beautifully embodies the second one. As a dedicated plein air artist based in Houston, she sets up in the shade to capture the shimmering light on tree leaves, rippling water, and the quiet beauty of local gardens like Bayou Bend or Hermann Park. In our fast-paced world, artists like Faith who slow down to observe and paint these everyday wonders are a nice reminder to just take a breath, notice the little things, and enjoy the beauty all around us.
Faith Leskowitz’s work-in-progress oil painting of Bayou Bend Gardens in Houston, about 50% complete, depicts the historic estate’s formal gardens, statue and lush trees. (Submitted photo)
Tell us about your background and what you enjoy outside of creating art.
“I’m actually from Seabrook. I moved around a bit for my career but landed right back here in Houston. I have painted consistently over the years through both school and working full-time.
“I actually have a background in mechanical engineering, and am getting my master’s in data science part-time. The joke is that I did engineering so I could support my art and paint what I want to paint. In my non-painting free time I really enjoy reading Korean webtoons, playing with my cats, and exercising.”
What sparked your passion for art?
“I enjoy being surrounded by beautiful things. This, combined with enjoying the process of making art is what drives my passion. The main reason I even ended up selling my art was because I ran out of wall space and had no space to create more. I strive to be constantly surrounded with pretty colors and calming visuals and I think that shows in my art.”
Faith Leskowitz’s plein air painting from Orange Walk, Belize, near the Lamanai archaeological reserve, where a wild coati approached her during the session. (Submitted photo)
How do you pick your painting spots, and what’s the biggest challenge working outdoors here?
“I choose my painting spots based on how shaded the area is. I mainly paint natural elements, so you’ll see me parked up under a tree looking at other trees that have dappled light. I have found that if I go in the sun, the paint dries too fast and I end up getting a bad burn despite how much sunscreen I wear.
“Regarding challenges, the biggest challenge here is definitely the heat! My acrylics dry so fast it’s a race of me against time more than anything. That and the bugs getting stuck on paint has been a real issue. Due to how sticky the paint is I’m thinking of bringing tweezers in my pack to try and pick them off easier.”
What are you working on right now?
“I am working on a large 48×48 inch painting of Bayou Bend Gardens! I am planning on having a Gardens of Houston collection and this will be the main piece.”
What are your future plans or goals?
“Right now, I have two main future plans and one future goal. My future plans are to 1. Practice with oil paints more as they allow for longer working times for plein air, and 2. To finish setting up my online print shop.
“My future goal is to have an art studio, ideally a separate rented space like Sawyer Yards but I’ll settle for a garage. Just a space to make art without taking over my living room would be amazing.”
Faith Leskowitz’s favorite painting, an impressionistic take on Asher Brown Durand’s “The Beeches”, marking her shift toward impressionism over realism in a vibrant woodland scene. (Submitted photo)
Bonus: What’s one thing about you that would surprise your customers, friends, or family?
“When I was painting plein air in Belize, a wild Coati (a long-nosed member of the raccoon family) walked up to me! It got within about 6 feet before it scurried away but I’ll never forget that experience.”
Catch Faith Leskowitz in person this Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at the First Saturday Arts Market. She’ll be set up from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 540 W. 19th Street, Houston, TX 77008. It’s a wonderful opportunity to see her work up close, talk about her process, and perhaps take home a piece that captures Houston’s light and beauty.
You can find more of Faith’s art anytime on her main website at leskowitz.art, follow her creative journey on Instagram @leskoart, browse and shop her pieces on her Etsy shop at leskowitz.etsy.com, or catch fun behind-the-scenes moments on TikTok @paint.with.faith.
Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market. Visit ArtValet.com for more.