Leslie Thompson’s collection of work by Glenn Ness reflects both her personal story and her deep connection to art, design, and lifestyle. One of the most meaningful pieces she owns is FLIP (2019), an oil on canvas measuring 32 x 48 inches, purchased in December 2019. The painting captures a suspended moment of motion, a figure mid-flip above a pool, symbolizing freedom, risk, and living fully in the present.

 

Leslie’s connection to Glenn Ness dates back to around 2007, when she became involved with the Pacific Art Foundation and helped organize “Meet the Artist” events. It was at one of these events that she first met Ness. That same evening, the foundation acquired one of his works, and Leslie purchased a small study titled Fences and Neighbors, which still sits displayed in her office. This moment marked the beginning of both a friendship and a lasting artistic relationship.

 

First moving to Newport Beach in 2001, Leslie and her husband Chris embraced the mid-century aesthetic of their Lido Sands home, originally designed by architect A. Quincy Jones. The clean lines, natural light, and indoor-outdoor flow of their space heavily influenced their taste in art. Ness’s work, often centered on poolside scenes and modernist architecture, aligned perfectly with their environment and lifestyle.

 

Over the years, Leslie continued collecting Ness’s work, including a commissioned set of pool-themed studies and a larger piece, About Last Night (2013), displayed in her library. When she and Chris discovered FLIP, they immediately knew it belonged in their bedroom. For Leslie, the painting serves as a daily reminder to embrace life boldly and fully.

 

Beyond aesthetics, Leslie believes art offers something deeper. Each piece evolves depending on light, time of day, and the viewer’s perspective. She sees art as a reflection of life itself, layered, constantly changing, and meaningful. Her collection isn’t just decoration…it’s a living experience that invites pause, reflection, and discovery.