✍️ Meet the artist

Hi, I’m Dakota Leda, a self-taught artist working primarily in charcoal and graphite. Since 2020, I’ve been creating highly detailed drawings of animals and nature in a style I call emotive realism — art that blends fine detail with storytelling to capture not just how a subject looks, but how it feels.

My work spans everything from big cats and wild animals to beloved pets and personal portraits. Some pieces are intimate studies that come together in just a few hours, while others are large, intricate works that unfold over 30, 60, or even 80 hours. No matter the scale, I approach each drawing with the same focus: to breathe life into my subject and create artwork that collectors can truly connect with.

What inspires me most is the bond between people, animals, and the natural world — whether it’s the raw presence of a leopard, the loyalty in a dog’s eyes, or the quiet power of a horse in motion. My goal is to transform these moments into heirloom-quality artwork that can be lived with, cherished, and passed down. 

If you feel drawn to animals and the stories they tell, I invite you to explore my collection. Perhaps you’ll find a piece that resonates with your own story and deserves a place in your home.🩶