LEONARDO JARA

LEONARDO MARCELO JARA

Leonardo was born in Cuenca, Ecuador on April 9, 1974. The son of an artist, he began painting at the age of sixteen. Leo attended Hernan Cordero Primary School, followed by Benigno Malo High School. After high school, Leo went to the University of Cuenca School of Visual Arts- Architecture Faculty from 1991 until 1993.

After college, painting remained a hobby while Leo gained work experience in graphic arts designing and painting ceramics, banners, and signs with various companies.  

Leo moved to Connecticut in 2000, and now lives in Groton. He worked at Steak Loft in Mystic as a cook and assistant kitchen manager for 12 years. Currently, he is a Sous Chef for Gourmet Galley in North Stonington.

His passion for art has only grown since college. In 2007, Leo got second place in the Mystic Art Show, with the painting titled ‘Iglesia de Cotacachi’, which translates to ‘Church of Cotacachi’. After getting involved in an art show last year, he decided to start focusing more of his time on his artwork. He has since put his art in numerous shows and competitions. 

In addition to being an artist, Leo is also a very talented musician. He has played the guitar since the age of 15. Largely self taught, he’s played in bands and churches since childhood. He was the Spanish Chorus Director at Saint Mary’s Star of the Sea Church in New London. He is now in a band called 

Latin Mix, playing locally and for private events. Follow Leonardo on Instagram  @jara.artwork