Yes, and he had a certain notoriety because of that—and would get crank calls from desperate people who were aware of his gayness. But most of the young people hanging out at his studio were straight. Leon was not into younger guys, but he was willing to listen to their angsty torment at times and was a nurturing, reassuring figure. His studio was a safe place to be. We valued Leon’s worldly experience of having lived in New York for years and considered him a creative role model.

An interview with Texas artist Julie Speed.