NYC-based artist Joan LeMay (American, b. 1979) excavates and communicates the emotional and energetic core of her subjects, herself included, as an act of connection and projection. As a portraitist, figurative painter and visual storyteller, her work focuses on the depiction of loved ones and public-facing artists of all kinds. She also explores the fragmented figure in antiquity and today in her practice.

LeMay’s art and text book about Steely Dan with writer Alex Pappademas, Quantum Criminals: Ramblers, Wild Gamblers, and Other Sole Survivors from the Songs of Steely Dan, (University of Texas Press 2023) was called “weird and wondrous” by the New York Times and “one of the sharpest, funniest, and best books ever about any rock artist” by Rolling Stone. Her new book with Pappademas, Friends of the Devil (Random House, pub date 11/3/26) goes deep on the Grateful Dead.

Her work has been published in dozens of publications and multiple books, and she has collaborated extensively with independent filmmakers and creative agencies on compelling narrative works. A lifelong music universe person, her artwork appears on several album covers and countless show flyers. She is the bassist and vocalist of two bands: Bull Thieves (Ojet Records) and Viennetta (20/20 Records And Tapes).

LeMay’s fine art is exhibited internationally in galleries, museums, alternative venues, and public spaces.