Splash July 2025 | Page 32

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Carla Vincent Levers didn’ t just grow into an artist— she arrived as one. In second grade, her portrait of Mary and baby Jesus was so compelling, her teacher accused her of getting help from her parents. That early accusation, tearful as it was, marked the beginning of a lifelong journey steeped in emotion, detail, and quiet brilliance.
and passion, creating portraits and
Your paragraph text a spark of connection they can’ t quite explain.”

Soul on Canvas

The Spellbinding Art of Carla Vincent Levers

Carla Vincent Levers didn’ t just grow into an artist— she arrived as one. In second grade, her portrait of Mary and baby Jesus was so compelling, her teacher accused her of getting help from her parents. That early accusation, tearful as it was, marked the beginning of a lifelong journey steeped in emotion, detail, and quiet brilliance. Today, Carla paints with the same sincerity and passion, creating portraits and landscapes that connect deeply with viewers.“ I want my paintings to stop people in their tracks,” she says.“ To feel a spark of connection they can’ t quite explain.” Her work is often described as soulful and unforgettable.
Carla’ s award-winning portrait Leila in Lace,
a tender rendering of a sweet redheaded baby, earned a Merit Award at the 2024 Eastern Shore Art Center Members ' Show.“ That piece was about more than likeness— it was about capturing innocence and spirit,” she says. It ' s a perfect example of Carla’ s gift: revealing the essence of a subject in a way that feels alive. Portraits begin with conversation. Carla visits her subjects ' homes, absorbing the light, stories, and emotion that will shape the final piece.“ It’ s about more than appearance— it’ s about essence,” she explains. Using rich oil tones, pastels, or even textured
Tamara Scott, Pink Pelican Art Gallery
mortar and alcohol ink, she builds her pieces slowly, layer by luminous layer. Her landscapes echo this same energy. Inspired by the natural world— sunsets over water, reflections in petals, light in motion— Carla aims to create scenes that make you want to step in and stay awhile.“ Cloudy days make the best sunsets,” she muses.“ It’ s true in painting and in life.” Carla is currently accepting portrait commissions. To purchase available work or discuss a custom piece, visit Pink Pelican Art Gallery in Orange Beach, Sago in Gulf Shores or on-line at cvincentlevers. com.