Luc Leestemaker (1957-) grew up in the Netherlands, where interests in art, theater and communication led him into such diverse professions as remedial teacher; founder of an Amsterdam based performing arts center; founder of the European art collective "Hart Poetry;" founder and editor of a monthly business and arts magazine; and managing director of "Leestemaker & Associates," a consulting firm specializing in arts marketing, financing, and public relations. But it would be Leestemaker's long-standing interest in painting (his grandfather was an artist) that would ultimately command his devotion.

Throughout the years he subconsciously knew that he needed time to build the psychological framework for his art. Upon moving to the US in 1990, Leestemaker felt he was ready to fully commit to painting.