Blue Sky…those words conjure up a smile and warm vibes.  That’s the feeling you get when you walk into a new Waldo shop, Blue Sky Art+Home at 408 East Gregory, a few steps from the Front Range Cafe. Owner Leslie Beck opened the space November 1, and invites you to stop by!

Leslie grew up in Brookside and graduated from the University of Kansas with a BA in Fine Arts.  She worked out of her home for years as a graphic designer (and still does that work); after her Dad passed a few years ago she started to paint on canvas.  She had pop up shows at various locations at First Fridays, and eventually wanted to have her work on display in her own space.  She met up with her close friend Katherine Bramble Taylor and together they had a long collaborative “blue sky” session, talking about “what would you do if you could do anything”.   They decided to look for space together in the Waldo area and found this perfect spot.  Katherine’s floral and gift shop, Bramble and Stem, is next door. 

Blue Sky is an art studio, gallery and boutique. Inside you’ll find Leslie’s original paintings on the walls and unique merch for sale:  pottery by Rachael Akin from Lees Summit; Archive bath and body products by Margot Elena; beautiful textiles and pillows, small vases, books and a special Blue Sky candle, scented by Brookside’s The Corner Candleshop. In the back of the store, Leslie hosts creativity workshops, often collaborating with Katherine  from Bramble and Stem next door.  Leslie explains these workshops are not technique or skill driven.  “Each one has a theme, and we start out with some journaling thoughts for inspiration.  Then everyone uses paints and various marking tools to create a personal  piece of art”.  No judgement here–Leslie knows everyone is born with a creative spark of some sort and she works with you to naturally bring out your inspiration in a unique way.  

Besides creating art in this space and offering workshops and special gifts, Leslie also works on commission.  Her mission is to create art with love; her work is deeply personal and meaningful. Through the commissioned pieces she will transform cherished photos into abstract paintings or create something entirely new, guided by emotions as she listens to your favorite songs via a playlist. Every piece is very personal and lasting.

Like so many working artists, Leslie has two full time jobs: working in this space and raising a family of five children with her husband.  You can email her (leslie@blueskyartandhome.com) for shop hours or pop by when you are walking in the neighborhood.