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Get ready for the opening reception of watercolor artist Megen Leigh's new exhibit, Tell Me a Story. It's an explosion of color, wonder, and just a touch of magic. On Saturday, September 7, from 4–6 pm, the Granville Center for the Arts gallery transforms into a world of bold watercolors, fantastical creatures, and imaginative landscapes that feel straight out of a fairytale. Westerville-based artist Megen Leigh, with her deep roots in the science fiction and fantasy community, creates work that begs you to lean in, look closer, and uncover the hidden details tucked into every piece. Monsters may lurk, botanicals may bloom, and entire dreamscapes may rise before your eyes. As you wander the gallery, enjoy great company, complimentary snacks and drinks, and the chance to meet Megen herself. This free, family-friendly event promises an afternoon of curiosity, connection, and inspiration. Meet the artist: My name is Megen Leigh, and I'm an artist living in Westerville, OH, who has grown up in the science fiction and fantasy community. As an artist working primarily in watercolor and fluid inks, I create whimsical, imaginative landscapes and playful abstracts that often reflect that upbringing. Over the last several years, I've been on a journey of self-discovery through art. I have experimented with a variety of styles and mediums, trying to find that one thing that defines me as an artist. I've come to the conclusion that I'm never going to stop evolving and experimenting. The journey is what keeps me going, but watercolor feels like home to me now. Regardless of subject matter, I approach my work in a very fluid manner, often starting by just putting some color on wet paper and playing with it until something coalesces to give me a direction. I regularly don't know whether I'm creating a landscape or an abstract until I'm in it. This method has been a huge part of my mental health journey, and has pushed me just to let go and work with what happens naturally, both in art and in life. I've exhibited work at several locations in the Columbus area, including a solo exhibition at the German Village Historical Society in May 2023, multiple group shows at 83 Gallery, and a small solo exhibition at Family Room Cafe in December 2024. I've recently started leaning into my science fiction/fantasy roots and was the Artist Guest of Honor at Windycon 50 in Chicago. I'm currently an artist in residence at High Road Gallery in Worthington with a studio space open to the public. When I'm not in my studio, I can be found volunteering as a mentor with an art-focused program for adults with developmental disabilities, exhibiting at a variety of fine arts and crafts festivals, and popping up in the occasional Science Fiction convention vendor hall or art show. @leighmarts on Instagram/TikTok/Bluesky
