Artist and art educator based in South Dakota.
Shay Leichtenberg is a multidisciplinary artist whose work often explores mixed media through unconventional techniques with paints, found objects, and fibers. She holds a BSED in K-12 Art Education and a BA in Art from Northern State University, and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in art education while teaching grades 6-12 art courses in southeastern South Dakota.
Leichtenberg’s artistic philosophy is influenced by Ellen Dissanayake’s theory that artmaking is an evolutionary trait essential to the human condition. She believes that creation fosters connections, empathy, and resilience, which is reflected in her blend of traditional and innovative techniques. Her work, which has been exhibited in galleries across South Dakota, explores themes of identity, transformation, memory, nature, and history. For project inquiries or to purchase her work, she can be contacted at shayleichtenberg@gmail.com.
