Biography
Leah Knecht, based in Pasadena, CA, descends from a centuries-old lineage of Japanese artists. Surrounded by art from an early age and influenced by visual traditions from Japan, Mexico, Africa, and Europe, she developed a deep appreciation for cultural aesthetics that continues to inform her practice. After earning her degree, Knecht pursued creative careers while steadily refining her fine art work.
Her practice explores depth perception through three-dimensional layering combined with painted and collaged elements, often realized through assemblage or sculptural forms. Across these mediums, she frequently addresses socio-political themes, drawing from personal history and broader cultural narratives. Knecht’s artwork has been exhibited in galleries and museums, including her solo exhibition Equal Justice Under Law at the Ontario Museum of History and Art in Ontario, CA.
Knecht is active in arts organizations as a volunteer, contributing her technical and design skills to support community programming. An alumna of the world-renowned Art Center College of Design, she continues to expand her practice with a meticulous and experimental approach.
Solo Exhibitions:
2022 – Step 1: Identify, TAG Gallery, Los Angeles, CA.
2021 – Equal Justice Under Law, Ontario Museum of History and Art, Ontario, CA
2018 – Leah Knecht, Solo Show, The Neutra Museum Institute and Gallery, Los Angeles, CA.
Awards:
2025 – Second Place Recipient, Juried by Linda De Martinez.
The Gold Standard, Gallery 612, Santa Monica, CA.
2023 – Steve Thomas Award for Photography/Conservation, Juried by Jennifer Kane.
12th Biennial Open Exhibition, Ontario Museum of History and Art, Ontario, CA.
2023 – Honorary Mention Recipient, Juried by Elizabeth B.Tucker.
PSA 98th Annual Juried Exhibition, Sierra Madre Creative Group, CA
2021 – Award of Merit Recipient, Juried by Dr. Mika Cho.
PSA 96th Annual Juried Exhibition, White’s Fine Art, Montrose, CA.
2019 – Mayor’s Award Recipient, Juried by Peter Mays.
34th Annual Juried Exhibition, MOAH: Cedar, Lancaster, CA.
Achievements:
2022 – Uplift Scholarship, TAG Gallery, Los Angeles, CA
1987 – Merit Scholarship, Art Center College of Design.