This piece was one of the most challenging in the zodiac series. I wanted to embody the essence of Leo—the courage, strength, and commanding presence of a leader—through a visual story of protection and unity. The model becomes the heart of the pride, with a black lion and a white lion positioned on either side as guardians, their gazes turned outward to protect their surroundings. By having the central lion stare directly at the viewer, the sense of vigilance and authority is reinforced, emphasizing that the pride is both defended and guided by its leader.

The Leo title sits behind the model’s head but in front of the other lions, visually placing her at the center of the pride’s hierarchy. Subtle stripes, reminiscent of claw marks, run through the composition—some in color, others in black and white—symbolizing the duality of power and protection, as well as the separation and unity within the pride. All the eyes in the piece are striped with color, drawing the viewer into the intensity and energy of these creatures and their leader.

This work is an ode to the fierce, protective, and luminous spirit of Leo, a celebration of leadership, loyalty, and the strength it takes to stand at the center of the pride.