Why did I name my studio Cherry Bomb? Because, You’re The Bomb!

Sara Leger is an accomplished artist based in rural Ontario, known for her mixed media paintings that blend elegance with an edgy spirit. Growing up feeling like an outsider, she harnessed her experiences to fuel her passion for art, selling her first piece at the age of 10 and later pursuing a formal education in Illustration at Sheridan College.

Her artistic journey has taken her through vibrant cities such as Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver, where she honed her eclectic style. Returning home, she opened a gym dedicated to empowering women through strength training, successfully running it for ten years until the pandemic forced its closure. This experience showcased her commitment to fostering resilience in her community, even in the face of challenges.

With the pandemic serving as a catalyst for change, Sara reignited her passion for painting in her Cherry Bomb Studio, creating works that resonate with themes of self-discovery and individuality. Her popular Cocktails and Canvases events have cultivated a local art scene that encourages social connection and creativity, inviting local artists to gather and showcase their work in an area with limited artistic opportunities.

As Vice President of Your Arts Council and a member of the Art Walk committee, Sara is dedicated to building a vibrant art community. She has organized monthly pop-ups and independently curated shows like Gardeners of the Galaxy and the annual Apples and Arts, highlighting the work of local and underrepresented women artists.

Having exhibited in galleries such as Cline House Gallery, Cailuan Gallery, and Gallerie Artus in Montreal, Sara’s work has gained recognition beyond her rural roots. In 2024, she collaborated as an illustrated author with award-winning writer Melissa Yi, further expanding her artistic footprint. She primarily sells her art online through her own website and has successfully sold to collectors across Canada, the USA, and Australia.

Her mantra, “Be unapologetically you,” resonates in every piece, inspiring collectors to embrace their true selves through art that speaks to individuality and authenticity..

A proud GenX and mother, Sara’s art tells a story of resilience and tenacity, defying societal norms and celebrating the unique journey of every individual. Each piece invites others to join her path of self-discovery, serving as a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit

Artist Statement

Sara Leger’s art embodies resilience and individuality, reflecting the journey of women who’ve been conditioned to be “nice” and “good” at the expense of their true selves. Her **Bougie Punk** style blends high-end sophistication with a rebellious spirit, amplifying the feminine voice in a world that often silences or invalidates it. Through **vibrant oil portraits and mixed media**, her work explores self-discovery and the strength found in embracing vulnerability.

Inspired by the tension between societal expectations and lived experience, Sara’s work celebrates those who refuse to conform. Motifs like **skulls, sacred hearts, and sculpted flowers** reference both tattoo culture and old-world symbolism, creating a visual language that honors the complexity of the feminine experience. Each piece invites viewers to reconnect with their own truth, serving as a reminder that our voices and stories matter.

CV