Gina Leyton was born in Europe of Polish, Russian parents who emigrated to Brazil in 1948. From her early childhood, her colored drawings were entered in Fiestas, national Brazilian holidays that were celebrated in school.
When she moved to California in 1967, she enrolled in art classes in college and also took several workshops (in and out of the state) to perfect her individual style.
Her primary motive to paint is her deep need to express herself through color and brushstrokes. "Art is very healing because it speaks to that essence of soul, which is in every one of us. Creativity is infinite, the more that it is given away, the more abundant it becomes."
Mrs. Leyton's oil paintings are interpretations of sunny days, sunlit flower fields, still lifes and luscious lilacs. The appearance of having been struck by momentary light and their emphasis on color are characteristic of her painting. There is a timeless serenity in her work; rich, bold and simple compositions.
Gina's paintings have been exhibited in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil and in California. She has had several one-woman shows and has been the recipient of numerous awards.