Born in Chicago Illinois, USA, Leonard Ericks became interested in art from early childhood. Self taught at first he explored many different styles and means of expression during his early years. Later he travelled abroad, living for six years in Puerto Rico and later eight years in Caracas, Venezuela. Leonard returned to art school in 1979, graduating with honors from the Ringling School of Art and Design, in Sarasota, Florida in 1982. He now resides in Costa Rica, where he teaches art and continues to produce his paintings and sculptures.