Art Begins with People
"People Around Us believes that art begins with people. By sharing artists' journeys, creativity, and lived experiences, we make art more accessible, practice the art of living—building community, celebrating diverse voices, and inspire meaningful human connections."
_Leila Ghasempor
Terry Sand
Zdenka Bleile
Inna Zatulovsky
Alan Hart
John Barrows
As an artist, I noticed that many creators are so deeply immersed in their craft that they lack the time or tools to share their work online. Managing websites, social media, and visual media can feel overwhelming.
People Around Us steps in to lift that weight. We support artists by beautifully documenting their practice—through web design, videography, photography, interviews, studio visits, and storytelling—so their work is shared with care and authenticity, ensuring their art is not only seen, but deeply felt and appreciated.
Hello, I'm Leila Ghasempor — an interdisciplinary sustainable artist, community educator, curator, and founder of People Around Us.
My art practice is rooted in collective thought and shared responsibility. It explores sustainability, community, empathy, and collective responsibility through socially engaged art workshops, performance, social sculpture, and art education. I believe creativity has the power to bring people together and strengthen our sense of belonging.
I hold an MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, a BFA in Sculpture with a Minor in Art History from the University of South Dakota, a degree in Art & Design from Parkland College, and a certificate in Early Childhood Education and Management.
What I Do
Through People Around Us, I collaborate with artists, museums, libraries, schools, and community organizations by offering:
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Artist websites Designs
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Photography & videography
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Promotional films
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Artist interviews & studio visits
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Exhibition curation
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Community workshops
My goal is simple: to help artists present their work with clarity, integrity, and lasting impact.
Community Leadership
Founder & Creative Director — People Around Us
Teaching Artist & Community Educator
Curator of exhibitions and public art programs
Founder of Our Weapon Is Love, my interdisciplinary Art Practice
Workshop Chair — FabMo
Art & Community Practice
Personal Art Practice & Studio Work
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People Around Us Interviews
Artist Interviews, Spotlight Features
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People Around Us Workshops
Socially Engaged Community Arts
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Croknitting by Leila
Crochet and knitting Art Practice
Teaching, Curation & Background
Youth & Community Art Education
Exhibitions, Gallery & Community Display
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Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Working Experiences, Background
