Leilah Hodges is an artist based in the San Francisco Bay Area, California. She draws inspiration from her cultural experiences, nature, and local community. Outside of her practice she loves to travel, tasting different matcha drinks, and baking!

Resume/CV

contact: leilahhodges13@gmail.com

⭐️ Currently Open For Work: Illustrations, animation, & comics

My artistic practice is driven by curiosity about my identity, my cultural community, and the overlooked histories that shape who we are. I delve into forgotten stories, question misconceptions (including my own), and seek to create work that resonates both personally and universally. Drawing inspiration from diverse art forms like music, film, literature, and art history, I blend traditional mediums like pencil and gouache with digital illustration to explore the boundaries of my craft. Through this process, I aim to challenge perceptions and foster a deeper understanding of my community's narratives and contributions.

Storytelling is at the heart of my work. From childhood, I’ve been fascinated by the details that bring narratives to life; the worn-out coat hinting at adventures untold or a favorite mug revealing a character's essence. This passion for observation and world-building now informs my exploration of identity, culture, and history through illustration and animation. My work is about sparking curiosity and inspiring viewers to look beyond the surface, encouraging them to engage with their communities and challenge their own assumptions.

My experiences as a Black woman has deepened my commitment to representation and inclusivity, motivating me to create work that reflects underrepresented voices. Being a member of the Black N Animated Collective and Women in Animation – Bay Area Branch has connected me to networks of professionals dedicated to amplifying marginalized perspectives. These communities have not only offered mentorship and support but have also inspired me to continue advocating for diversity within creative fields.

Through my art, I strive to inspire curiosity, foster dialogue, and challenge preconceptions. By weaving together personal narratives with broader cultural contexts, I aim to create work that resonates deeply and encourages a more nuanced understanding of identity and community.