Influential Woman · Fine Arts and Visual Arts
Leyla Spencer
Mosaic Artist, Leyla Spencer / Artwares
Lambertville, NJ 08530
Her Story
About Leyla
Leyla Spencer is a lifelong artist and accomplished mosaicist based in Lambertville, New Jersey. Her passion for art began at an early age, nurtured by the encouragement of her mother, who recognized and supported her creative talent. After earning a bachelor’s degree from the University of New Mexico and pursuing additional studies at institutions including the Art Students League in New York, Leyla developed a diverse artistic practice spanning mosaic art, painting, and pastel work.
Before dedicating herself fully to her artistic career, Leyla spent 18 years working at Princeton University Library. Following her retirement, she transitioned to creating art full-time, focusing on custom and commissioned mosaic works through her studio, Leyla Spencer / Artwares. Since 1990, she has designed and produced distinctive mosaics crafted primarily from stained glass, creating pieces suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings. Her work has been exhibited in gallery environments and has attracted collectors ranging from private clients to major organizations, including Johnson & Johnson, which acquired several of her pieces following a successful exhibition in the 1990s.
Known primarily for her mosaic artistry, Leyla approaches each project as a unique creative challenge, believing that art is not merely a profession but a calling that requires continual growth and exploration. In addition to producing commissioned works, she teaches beginner mosaic classes, sharing her knowledge and passion with aspiring artists. Her dedication to craftsmanship, experimentation, and artistic expression has established her as a respected figure in the regional arts community, with a body of work that reflects decades of creativity and commitment.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Leyla
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to perseverance, supported by a bit of talent. While talent may open doors, it is persistence, resilience, and the determination to keep moving forward through challenges that have been the true drivers of my achievements.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is: “Draw what you actually see, not what you think you see.” Beyond art, this principle applies to every aspect of work and leadership. It reminds me to stay objective, pay attention to reality rather than assumptions, and make decisions based on facts, observations, and genuine understanding.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the art world is simple: keep at it. Art is not just a job—it’s a calling. The more you create, practice, and stay committed to your craft, the better you will become. Trust the process, stay persistent, and allow your passion to guide you through the challenges and growth that come with being an artist.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is finding the right galleries, generating a sustainable income, and getting artwork in front of the right audience. At the same time, there are more opportunities than ever for artists to showcase their work through online platforms, social media, and independent exhibitions. Success often comes from balancing creative growth with the business side of art and consistently putting your work out into the world.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me in both my work and personal life are discipline, curiosity, and continuous growth. In my work, I set a challenge for myself with every piece I create. Once that challenge is met, the piece is complete, and I move on to the next one. That cycle of learning, improving, and pushing my boundaries keeps me motivated and inspired.
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