Leroy P. Elie (1946-2020) was a life-long artist who blended abstract images, bold colors, and people-centered imagery to create experimental paintings that often commented on the experiences of African and African-American people, among “other international images such as people, events and social images,” per his artist statement.

While creating art, pursuing his full-time career in circuit board design, and caring for his family, Leroy returned to school in 2011 to earn a Fine Arts Degree at Portland State University. After passing away in August 2020, Leroy left behind his art to his only daughter, Chiara Elie, who now manages his collection and works to spread his paintings throughout their community.