About
Short Bio
Ceré Bellow, working under the name The Leo Goddess, is a mixed media artist and storyteller based in Columbus, Ohio. Her work is deeply rooted in personal experience, ancestral memory, and the exploration of cultural identity. Drawing inspiration from nature, the emotional and spiritual power of materials, and the voices of artists, writers, and musicians who have come before her, Bellow creates layered, evocative works that bridge the personal and the collective.
Statement
My art is an act of healing. Having navigated personal and medical challenges, I approach my practice as a way to process trauma, affirm life, and reclaim joy. I work intentionally with natural, plant-based pigments and dyes to connect with the earth and express the deep resilience woven through my own story and the broader narratives of my community.
Through layered textures, symbolic forms, and thoughtful color palettes, I aim to capture stories that reflect the complexity of identity, survival, and the sacredness of Black womanhood. Influenced by artists like Aminah Robinson, Frida Kahlo, and Louise Nevelson—and inspired by the literary and musical legacies of Maya Angelou, Zora Neale Hurston, and Nina Simone—I use mixed media to honor both past and present.
Whether exhibiting in community galleries or receiving support from organizations like the Greater Columbus Arts Council and Ohio Arts Council, I remain committed to using my voice and vision to spark connection, remembrance, and renewal.
Resume / CV
Education
The Ohio State University — B.A. in History of Art and Architecture, 2012
Columbus State Community College — A.A. in Arts – General Studies
Fort Hayes Metropolitan Education Center — Arts Focus Graduate, 2006
Selected Exhibitions
Priscilla R. Tyson Cultural Arts Center – Main Gallery, Columbus, OH
“Student Showcase” — June 2024
Priscilla R. Tyson Cultural Arts Center – Loft Gallery, Columbus, OH
“Your Own Creative Voice: Artwork from the Collage Mixed Media Class” — March–April 2024
Shot Tower Gallery, Columbus, OH
Senior Showcase Student Exhibition — Spring & Summer 2006
Wexner Center for the Arts, Columbus, OH
Art & Environment Final Project (Art & Ecology Program) — Spring 2006
Programs & Residencies
Wexner Center for the Arts – Art & Ecology Program, Columbus, OH
2005–2006, under direction of Shelly Casto
Awards & Grants
Artists with Disabilities Access Program — Ohio Arts Council, 2024
Funds for Artists Grant — Greater Columbus Arts Council, 2023 & 2024
Experience
The Leo Goddess Studio — Founder / Freelance Artist
Blacklick, OH | 2018–Present
- Produces mixed-media artwork that explores identity, healing, and cultural storytelling
- Specializes in sustainable, nature-based materials and techniques
- Works in various media including watercolor, ink, pastel, acrylic, dye, ceramic, and digital design
Skills
• Mixed Media Art
• Botanical & Natural Dye Printing
• Fabric Design
• Ceramic & Glass Art
• Digital Design
• Sustainable & Archival Art Practices
Public Engagement & Media
City of Columbus – Conversations and Coffee: “Your Own Creative Voice” Panel
Artist Panelist — March 14, 2024,
