MEET
Jeanette Leonard

Jeanette Leonard has been the director of the BAFFA Art Gallery for four years. As the BAFFA Art Gallery turns 47 years old, and it has just passed its 40th anniversary in the historic Gillette House, we wanted to sit down with Jeanette and ask her a few questions about her journey with BAFFA.​

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Why did you want to accept the job as Gallery Director?

"Seeing other artists’ viewpoints and talents brings me such joy. When I was a student at FIT, I was always amazed by the creativity around me. Whenever a teacher assigned a project, I would think, “Everyone is going to create the exact same thing.” But when it came time for critiques, every single piece was completely different—unique, imaginative, and inspiring.
That same feeling comes back to me at the BAFFA Gallery."

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What has been your proudest moment as BAFFA's Gallery Director?

"Starting the Member Show for BAFFA artists is my proudest accomplishment. Our first one was only two years ago, and it has become a meaningful opportunity for our members to showcase their work. I love creating themes that feel universal—something every artist can interpret in their own way."

 

What have you learned most about yourself while serving in this role?

"I’ve learned that with collaboration and friendship, we can accomplish anything. Working with a dedicated team and supportive community has shown me just how powerful shared passion can be."

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Have you experienced anything unexpectedly challenging in the role?

"One of the biggest challenges was realizing that ideas can’t always move forward quickly. Being part of a large organization means the process sometimes slows down. But I’ve come to understand that anything worthwhile takes time, thoughtful planning, and patience."

 

What event has taken the most time and energy, but been the most rewarding?

"The High School Student Art Show, without question. It’s a massive undertaking involving 12 high schools across Long Island. That means coordinating with art chairpersons and teachers, sending forms, organizing scholarship applications, labeling, advertising, hanging the artwork, arranging judges, preparing programs, and so much more.
But it is also incredibly rewarding. Giving students the chance to earn scholarships and display their work in a professional gallery is priceless. If this helps launch their future in the arts, every ounce of effort is worth it."

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What are your favorite types of gallery shows—at BAFFA or anywhere?

"My favorite [exhibitions] are the ones that evoke deep, internal emotions. In college, I remember a painting that truly moved me: a lone man standing before an enormous, endless ocean. It made me feel how small we are in this vast world, and yet how unlimited our possibilities can be. That’s the kind of art I love—work that reminds us not to let life pass us by. Create. Inspire. The options are limitless."