Leanne “LippyArt” Beetham was born in 1987, with a condition known as Arthrogyrposis Multiplex Congenita. This condition meant she would never be able to use her arms or walk. Consequently, Leanne has adapted to using her mouth to do most daily tasks, including creating artworks, which she has been doing since the age of three. Since childhood, Leanne has had an affinity for animals, and her two passions have naturally combined.

In 2004, Leanne became a student artist for the Association of the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists (MFPA/AMFPA/VDMFK); a wholly owned organisation run by artists with disabilities, for the benefit of artists with disabilities. All of the artists create artworks using their mouth, feet, or a combination of the two! Leanne is a mouth artist, and endeavours to be promoted to full member artist one day.

In 2005/06, Leanne pursued a course in Photography, and was consequently introduced to the charity REMAP. They have - and continue to - adapt Leanne’s equipment to enable her to use it via a combination of her mouth, and the very limited movement of her hands. Photography enables Leanne to gain inspiration for her artworks; it has become an invaluable reference source, whilst also being a creative medium in itself.

In June 2009, Leanne became the first with a severe physical disability to graduate in “BSc (Hons) Applied Animal Behaviour & Training” at Bishop Burton College. This course has enabled her to understand her favourite subjects - animals - in further detail. Though she has had a passion for both animals and art since childhood, the course has had a significant influence on the ways Leanne views and understands the animals she paints and photographs. Through her new understanding, she is able to capture those small details which make each of her animal subjects unique.

In 2019, Leanne wanted to expand her horizons both professionally and creatively. In March, she officially became a member of the Association Of Animal Artists, and by October of that same year, she also joined the team for The Sumatra Camera Trap Project - she is excited to get involved with both group’s future exhibitions and projects. 

Leanne endeavours to break stereotypes, challenge perceptions, push boundaries, and inspire others to create - no matter what their abilities. She aims to use her art, photography, and live demonstrations to educate the world on the importance of both wildlife conservation and disability awareness (with emphasis to *ability*). Leanne is always looking to collaborate. She has worked with such artists as David Shepherd, Moemario, and Steve Waller, as well as attending various events; from demonstrations at local schools, to zoological parks, and large charity exhibitions in London. If you would like LippyArt to get involved with your project, gallery, or event - leave an email, or message via Facebook.

“Life is too short for regrets; the world is a great big canvas, 

and we should be throwing all the paint on it we can!”