"Roundup Cattle" by John Leone

"Roundup Cattle" by John Leone (1929-2011). Oil on board; 30" x 40" frame 39" x 48". John began his career in New York City and became a highly esteemed and sought after illustrator of books and magazines. The core of his work often centered on the distinctive landscape of the American experience. His love of the land led him to purchase a farm in New York's Catskill Mountains where he focused on a career in the fine arts. He gained his formal art training in New York City at the School of Art and Design, finishing his formal training at Cooper Union Art Institute. Upon graduation he became a freelance illustrator. From the beginning his love of horses and the outdoors permeated his work. As his recognition grew in the industry, his fine art paintings were featured as book covers for Western and adventure novels for such renowned publishers as Simon & Schuster and Grossett & Dunlap.