Local Artist/Teacher Showcases Works At North Riverside Mall Theatre August 3, 2010

Local Artist/Teacher Showcases Works At North Riverside Mall Theatre
Berwyn Teacher To Display Work in Theatre Lobby Throughout August

North Riverside, IL - Artist Charlie De Leonardis has kept a journal since childhood. Throughout the past six years, he has been using these journal entries as inspiration for his artwork, bringing a fresh new concept to the community of North Riverside. Throughout the month of August 2010, Charlie will be sharing his work with the visitors to the popular North Riverside Mall Theatre, located at 7501 West Cermak Road, where his paintings will be on display in the lobby exhibit space.

As an Elementary Art Teacher in Berwyn, Charlie De Leonardis was pleased to learn that his works would be showcased at the North Riverside Mall Theatre, especially since many of his students patronize this location. Charlie explains, "I think it's crucial to show by action that not only do I teach art, but I also make art. Art keeps me young-minded. It keeps me from not letting go of what it means to play, explore and not let the responsibilities of an older person take away a youthful outlook on life!"

His current showcase represents moments where he's been traveling in Peru, riding a CTA bus in Chicago, drinking coffee at his dining room table and daydreaming on the grass reflecting on his day. As he describes, "Each moment is special and worth exploring throughout the use of art. It’s a way to be more aware of my “being” and the world at large.”

Originally from Brookfield, Charlie De Leonardis studied art at Illinois State University where he realized that making art was his segue to seeing himself reflected in this world. "The environments that most of my pieces and journal entries reflect are buses, trains, car rides, my travels, public places as well as isolated moments. This type of work is an ongoing journey to document my surroundings while I'm breathing in them," he says in description of his work.

Through his Web site and by getting involved with other artists at gallery showings in and around Chicago, Charlie is able to promote his work and maintain a presence in the Chicago art scene. For additional information on artist Charlie De Leonardis, please visit www.charliedeleonardis.com.

Each month, the North Riverside Mall Theatre provides lobby space to display the works of local artisans.