Meet Haley Leavitt | Art Curator / Community Development Proxy Property

We had the good fortune of connecting with Haley Leavitt and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Haley, how do you think about risk?
Risk has been a good friend to me. It’s also looked very different through the years.

“Risk has been a fascinating and supportive companion throughout my life, taking on various forms as I’ve grown.

At 18, it meant leaving Texas for Ohio State University, a major leap in pursuit of my dreams.

By 20, I took a considerable risk, leaving college and returning to North Dallas, exploring the realm of music and entertainment, and nurturing my creativity.

From 20 to 22, I participated in a leadership program that allowed me to identify some truths in my life while engaging in community service and international outreach.

At 23, I found myself questioning the direction of my life – no money, no degree, no clear path. It was a pivotal moment.

During that time, I interned at an art studio, where I first encountered the concept of ‘imposter syndrome,’ surrounded by numerous talented creatives I admired.

There was a hunger that stirred in me to join the creative world although I felt I had nothing to show for it.

Risk has looked like going to that event alone. It’s telling people “yes , I am an artist. yes, I am a creative.” It’s having the confidence and just enough delusion to think you belong in the room!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am currently part of the Proxy Property team, a real estate group specializing in neglected, often historical, and vacant properties. Recently, I embarked on a project with them known as ‘The Oak Cliff Assembly.’ This project has stretched my abilities in numerous ways.

I joined the team with minimal knowledge of construction sites and the real estate industry, but I possessed a strong desire to learn. I embraced every opportunity and eagerly tagged along to gain experience. I had a heart for the community in Oak Cliff and loved the idea of protecting historical properties.

This journey eventually led to the chance to initiate and curate three Art Walks at the Oak Cliff Assembly. The Art Walk is an event that provides local artists with a platform to showcase their work, free from the financial burdens of gallery costs and fees. Over the last 18 months, we’ve seen over 200 local artists participate in the Art Walk, with a great turnout that has fostered numerous friendships and allowed many artists to show their work for the first time publicly.

My most proud moment was when 25 neighbors showed up with us to City Council for our zoning approval to change the zoning from ‘townhomes’ to ‘community retail’.

Our team hopes to start an artist residency in Oak Cliff, but are really still learning what creatives really need! We are currently considering a 20,000-square-foot space, with a dream of creating a collaborative environment for artists to learn, create, and work together. Our vision includes 30 to 40 private studios, a tiered membership system, co-working spaces, classrooms for individuals to share their craft, access to gallery and event spaces, and education for artists on how to build creative careers. This concept will empower local creatives to build a platform, enrich the community, and provide a space for locals to learn a wide range of skills across various art mediums. It’s designed to be a one-stop-shop for your creative development and professional growth.

In regards to my personal brand, I remember hearing this once: “my life will be a stage for other people”. I come back to this a lot.

I’m not sure where my career and creativity will take me, but I’ve always wanted to create safe spaces for people. Maybe one day I’ll have my own gallery or a gallery will be showing my own work?!

I trust whatever is coming is mine, so I can’t miss it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d make sure to start the day at Davis Street Espresso. It was one of the first shops in Oak Cliff I fell in love with.

We would have to make our way to lunch down at Taco y Vino because who has a better happy hour? I’m listening?

Of course, following up with hibiscus tea from Wayward Coffee because they have the friendliest staff and the best vibes.

Take a stroll around Lake Cliff and take in the view of the skyline.

Catch some live music at Revelers Hall at night with some of the best grub. People really sleep on their food menu…

Late late night stop, Balcony Club.

Just take the people to the music!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The Artist Way by Julia Cameron. As well as the Bait of Satan by John Bevere. (that one sounds intense, but the message is about letting go of offense)

In terms of people who deserve recognition, the list is endless.

My family. My parents, Janet and Charlie, as well as my brother, Sam. They’ve been the greatest support and flood of affirmation. As well as all my family out in the midwest, OH-IO. (Go bucks?)

I’m currently employed at Proxy Property, a real estate firm with a unique focus on neglected, often historical, and vacant buildings. Huge shout-out to AJ and Michaella Ramler for giving me this opportunity. Proxy has been an incredible springboard in my life, challenging me in numerous ways. They’ve consistently encouraged creativity without limiting it. Thanks to their support, I successfully initiated and curated three Art Walks at the Oak Cliff Assembly, a dream I couldn’t have achieved without them.

My first art studio experience was with Justin, Kelly Clemmons at Flocc Studio. I drove from North Dallas to Oak Cliff a couple times a week in 2019 to help service their creative space. I had never been around so many encouraging creatives that were willing to teach me their craft.

Vennesa Villarreal Torrez and Kent Barker were notable creatives that believed in me. I had the opportunity to glean from their work!

Vennesa Villarreal Torrez is an incredible interior designer with the biggest heart. She really took me in and spoke life at me when I needed it. She’s a treasure.

Kent Barker allowed me to jump in on his photo shoots and assist. He gave me the confidence to speak up and trust myself.

And every friend who’s been by my side, they know who they are!

Website: theoakcliffassembly.com

Instagram: @enjoyhaleyleavitt / @theoakcliffassembly

Image Credits
Lexi Sanchez Jay Martin Photography