When I Was

When I Was is a series of illustrations about personal identity through names. I've legally changed my name four times, and have used five different names to present day. With the names I picked, I reflected on what those names mean to me and how I identified when using that name. The snake is included in each piece as a symbol of my Chinese zodiac and shedding identities. Yong Pu is centered around China's One Child Policy which was lifted in 2016. Lena is centered around the cultural change I experienced while growing up. Alex is centered around my experience with gender identity. Leigh is who I am now.

Bio

Leigh Kapantais is an illustrator in Southern Maine who specializes in an array of mediums ranging from gouache, watercolor, digital, and ink. She focuses on children's books, decorative illustration, and pet portraiture while managing her small business Leekappart. Follow her journey on Instagram @Leekappart as she steps into a new chapter!