David Leonardis Gallery is a nice small gem painting gallery. The paintings are impeccable and every painting has its own unique, colorful story on a canvas. I love how pleasant and informative David Leonardis is about each painting that aligns the walls in his gallery. I had such a great evening on last night laughing and chatting it up with him. David has such an amazing spirit and personality. David was kind to show me some cool new pieces in his galaxy. I'm really shocked about some of the negative reviews. Always excellent customer service. I even parked my car right in front of the gallery and he wasn't rude to me. But he did ask was that my car? but he didn't throw me any shade or give me an attitude. The paintings are well worth an investment and he even works with you to set up payment installments. Nice Gallery. Wall Full of Fun Colorful Paintings. David is a really cool and chill guy. He even offered and gave me a chill bottle of water. read more

See all

Wow...you have to visit this gem on N. Paulina Street in Chicago! If you're a collector, or a browser (and visiting here will make want to be a collector), spend some time and immerse yourself in a great experience...you won't be disappointed! read more

Last night I was North looking for somewhere to eat and ran into this amazing place. I love art and the gallery was closed but David came to the door and let me check out some beautiful pieces. I really enjoyed the ambiance of it all. Lightning was perfect, the Artwork was priceless like literally. I wish I could have taken photos but this is one you just have to experience. I plan on going here more to learn a thing or two because David's knowledge is impeccable. Appreciate being able to come in here and see the best will visit again soon. read more

David Leonardis Gallery - Art Galleries Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I just made my first purchase at DLG and I have to say it was an absolute pleasure! I am a fairly serious collector of Donald Topp's work but nothing David is!! This is the largest collection of his work I've ever seen!! He had the exact piece I was looking for and was even able to accommodate my specific request related to the numbering sequence of the piece. Amazing service and beyond expert in his knowledge of the artists he features. The gallery itself is in a great neighborhood downtown. It was easy to find and, very surprisingly, parking was a breeze right on the street across from the shop. It's a very cozy space and the walls are covered from floor to ceiling. It's any easy place to spend any amount of time. There is a lot to see! David is an extremely gracious and entertaining host as well. I cannot express how much I enjoyed the service I received and what a pleasure it was to see so much of Donald's work in one place! David was even able to point out subtle differences in the prints and explain the process by which they are made. Given the scale of his collection, it was truly impressive. I'm giving DLG five stars only because I can't give them six! They will definitely be seeing me back!! read more

A stunning cultural experience. World class collections. Phenomenal expertise. Personalized service for the discerning connoisseur. The David Leonardis Gallery is perhaps the finest privately owned and operated gallery of pop art and countercultural imagery in the city of Chicago. Having its origins from before the Wicker Park avant-garde renaissance of the early 90's, this historic countercultural institution has stood on the corner of Paulina and Milwaukee for over thirty years. Its list of showcased artists and clients over those thirty years is itself a cultural achievement, faithfully bringing rebellion, rock and roll, and revelry to those who can appreciate what it means. Named after the owner and curator, Mr. Leonardis is one of the world's foremost experts on the work of American legend Howard Finster. Alongside Finster, Mr. Leonardis has made it his mission to showcase a select group of bold and innovative interpreters of popular culture who have earned local, national, and international acclaim, including Chris Peldo, Peter Mars, and Donald Topp. There are selections here available at every price point, and for every taste. But perhaps the best reason to give this gallery a visit is the level of service the David Leonardis Gallery provides. It starts with education; few galleries are as enthusiastic as this one to elevate the cultural understanding of even the most casual art appreciator. For those who are serious collectors, this gallery provides a full gamut of client services; from quality framing, to asset appraisal, to decor consulting, the amenities that this gallery provides are second to none, at prices that will meet or beat any fine gallery in Chicago. In short, if you are a serious connoisseur of popular culture, a discerning collector, a cultural investor looking to expand your portfolio, or just find yourself walking along Milwaukee Avenue to get to the nightlife and resale shops, you would be remiss not to check this place out. read more

The neighborhood has evolved, pushing out many of the artists and galleries that made Wicker Park a fringe art destination. David is a symbol of what once was, and can be again. We are lucky to have him. His prices are fair and he's an absolute gem. read more

David is the best! I'm new to Chicago and Wicker Park... wandered in the gallery one Sunday afternoon, left with a life-changing Howard Finster piece. He was super patient with my indecisive-self to make sure I got a piece I loved. David knows his stuff and has a story for everything. Plus, he hand-delivered and installed the artwork for the reasonable price of a beer for his efforts. Will be back for more! read more

I didn't get to visit the Leonardis Gallery in person, but I ordered a painting from their web site. David worked with me in personally, answering all my questions and letting me pay for the painting over time, and wrapped the painting up very securely for transportation. I would definitely order from them again. read more

I live in the area and I finally went in today to check it out and I'm SO happy I did!! David is super welcoming, knowledgeable and sweet! He helped me decide on the two pieces I wanted (which took me forever) and even offered to come hang them up when they are framed. I'm so excited to have these pieces in my place! Thanks again David! read more

David Leonardis Gallery - My art pieces purchased at David's gallery - Art Galleries Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This little jewel is well worth a stop. Leonardis represents a variety of artists, notably including Howard Finster whose art will soon have a gallery of its own in Georgia. Leonardis himself is an interesting guy, quirky good. He is welcoming and happy to take time to talk about the art and artists. I took a group of students in one afternoon and he was princely to us; it was their favorite of our gallery stops. This boutique gallery is packed with eye candy and you will leave with either art or wishes. read more

David Leonardis Gallery - Art Galleries Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I don't understand the negative reviews! I moved to the neighborhood in April and every time I left the Jewel nearby my eyes were drawn to David's gallery. A few times it was closed so I just looked in the windows. Finally, one day, I was able to go in. I was fascinated with all the celebrity art and quickly found a painting of my favorite (don't make fun of me) Miley Cyrus. David told me about the artist, about his other gallery in Georgia, etc. We talked for quite awhile and I had his undivided attention. I bartered a little on price and David was willing to work with me. If you're looking for a conversation starter for your living room, check this place out. read more

My wife and I were shopping for art for our new place. We checked out a few places including David's. David really took the time to connect with us and ask what types of things we were looking for - and as first time art buyers we needed a bit of help. He spent quite a bit of time showing us a lot of art not on the walls, reaching deep into his collection. I came back a few weeks later to pick up my wife's favorite (Hipster Ariel) as a gift. David remembered me and we had a good time as we wrapped it up and he showed me what was new. As far as taste, everything was very cool. The art is a bit modern, and a bit pop. But I'm no expert. What I do know is that I would recommend David to anyone looking for several pieces of unique art for their home. read more

Over the past few years I have bought several pieces from David. He has exceptional artwork in his store, and has helped and advised me very well on building my own collection. He is easy to work with, flexible, and loves the art he sells. I highly recommend his gallery. read more

It is nearly impossible to come out of this gallery without wanting, REALLY wanting to take home at least one piece of art from this tiny pop art gallery superstore in Bucktown. There's going to be characters and images that will pull you in from your childhood/youth which is the kind of art that grabs me. I first stopped in looking for a housewarming gift for a friend and his family and found something perfect for this super-hero loving family-a Wonder Woman piece by Donald Topp. I was so in awe of his art I left with 2 very cool pieces for myself as I had just moved. What also makes this gallery special is the owner, David, who is inviting, an entertaining guy and he's enthusiastic and very knowledgeable about his artists. And it turns out he owns a museum and is an expert of the folk artist Howard Finester located in Georgia I believe. Very interesting hearing about that. What blew me away as part of his service-if you buy even just one piece of art, he will come over to your home and professionally hang the piece for you including your other artwork (he's got a great eye for art placement as I found out) but I had 18 pieces! did I say 18! pieces of art that David placed and hung throughout my home, roughly 3 hours, and he doesn't charge for that-a free service he's happy to throw in with your purchase whether you're a collector or not. But a burrito and a couple of Heinekens waiting for him doesn't hurt . Really incredible. Can't say enough about David and his gallery. And I'm eyeing another Donald Topp, hoping nobody beats me to it! read more

I couldn't be happier with my experience with David and his gallery. I was in the market for a birthday gift for my girlfriend so I stopped in one afternoon to check it out. I was impressed and entertained with David explaining the origins of each piece that caught my eye. I decided to go with a Donald Topp piece, and my girl absolutely adored it. To me, it was about more than the art, but the experience. I'm very happy that I stopped in. read more

My husband Tim and I stumbled upon the David Leonardis Gallery during a summer street festival. From the moment we walked in, we were captivated. We were not art aficionados prior to walking into the gallery, but David's passion for art is simply magnetic. We ended up purchasing five gorgeous pieces. David had them framed and came to our apartment to help us find the perfect location. David was the ultimate host, an educated and passionate owner and a kind and gentle human. We look forward to adding to our collection at David Leonardis Gallery very soon! read more

DLG is a Chicago staple for "non-cookie cutter" art. David introduced me to art collecting two years ago. Since then I've grown to have the upmost appreciation for art work; prints and paintings to be precise. Not only do I have his galleries' art in my home, but also my business. Reading a review posted earlier today seeing that someone came in and offered less than half of what the work costs is shameful and outright insulting. I have been a client of DLG, and will remain one. Don't let one bad apple ruin the batch! Great art for a great price, for great people! read more

David Leonardis (David Leonardis Gallery 1346 N. Paulina St. Chicago, IL 60622) reached out to me after seeing my paintings on Instagram. I live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. He gave me some expert advice on how to make my paintings gallery ready. He invited me to show at his gallery. I was (and still am) so ecstatic that a Chicago gallery owner saw something in my work! I am SO glad that I took him up on his generous offer. I have been selling numerous paintings through his expertise. He stays in constant contact and is doing right by me as an artist. He pays me quickly and always says "Thank you!" A gallery owner like David is a rare gem for an artist to have in their corner! I had the pleasure of visiting his awesome gallery this summer (while dropping off new paintings). I wish I lived closer, but get to Chicago twice a year to visit family. It's like it was meant to be! I look forward to a long relationship with Mr. Leonardis and his wonderful gallery! If you are in Chicago, visit. You won't be disappointed! - Pamela Dietrich read more

If I could give this place 0 stars I would. Art is not good and owner is extremely rude. You would think he would be nice and polite in order to sell his art. Walk right past this place. read more

I LOVE the David Leonardis Gallery! I walked in when my son went there to pick up some art he bought and had framed. It didn't strike me as the type of art I would like, since a lot of it is Pop Art...but I found something I absolutely loved on every single wall, and which I wanted to display in my home. I Love this place, and find it so much fun to walk in and look around whenever I am in the neighborhood. David has always got something new and interesting that catches my eye! And I look around and get ideas for great gifts for people I know. I suggest you walk in and give this place a whirl! read more

I love art galleries, but I often just look through the windows. I've had way too many gallery owners try to pressure-sell me something, or give me a dirty look when I say I'm only browsing. Regardless, I couldn't help but go inside the David Leonardis Gallery last year. I had spotted a wall of art that I needed to see up close, so I ventured in. I was able to look around for a few minutes before the owner approached. I braced myself for the usual amount of attitude, but he was really cool! David is enthusiastic about the artists he represents and their work, but not at all pushy. I talked about the sort of art I like, and he was happy to show me different pieces to try and match my need. No glares when I passed on them. David is a really friendly guy and very knowledgeable about art. I've since been back a few times to peruse his inventory and to buy a few things. He has a lot of pop culture infused pieces I adore, but the art selection isn't limited to just that. There's something there for everyone. If you find yourself in the neighborhood, be sure to stop by this charming little gallery and see for yourself! read more

I went in the gallery as i passed by and he was nice enough i told him I'm visiting to look at galleries to inform my undergraduate art thesis he asked about the art project that I'm doing his response to what i said was really patronizing probably because i wasn't really prepared to talk about it. I made an effort to forget about it to be amicable. Making conversation with him, i mentioned the art is cool and i felt bad because i want to buy some but i don't have the money for that just yet. he responded with a self serving passive aggressive debate how young people don't buy original art initially i was on board like yeah dude i agree with you-buy original art to support the artist and yourself but i need to hold off on that until i have a good base and he's like 'no it'll support YOU' and literally argued that millennials would advance more in their careers and get more money to afford the art they buy if they had original art in their homes to "educate" themselves. It was clear he was going on the offensive so I asked him how does having art in the home directly translate into more money- that sounds like a bit of a leap. He regurgitated the same argument, He also said that our generation spends too much on "Starbucks" and "avocado toast" and told me we should budget better (ie include expensive art on an already tight budget presumably because we waste money on frivolous things) and I'm like dude we are living in shit apartments with the mattress on the floor because we cant afford furniture with our income he was scoffing my responses the entire time and just being extra shitty some other gems include "emojis are going to replace all language" and "you know were due in for the 5th extinction [presumably at the hands of millennials and their phones] anyways i tried to diffuse things by saying we can agree to disagree he ended the conversation by saying "you can go write about me because ill be writing about you" anyways i hope you like where i put it buddy read more

Dave has sold me a fantastic collection of modern and pop art over several years. I am happy to say my walls are much more fun and all my guests ask about the pieces I've bought here. Always a conversation starter and a wise investment. read more