Beyond the Tropics: An Artistic Journey was a solo exhibition by Brazilian-born, Baltimore-based artist Camila Leão that explores Brazil’s wildlife and ecosystems through a contemporary lens. Featuring paintings of animals from different Brazilian biomes, the show celebrates the country’s rich biodiversity while moving past stereotypical tropical imagery. Through bold color, graphic forms, and celestial elements, Leão invites viewers to see Brazilian nature as complex, powerful, and deeply connected to cultural identity, memory, and environmental urgency.

Press: https://www.cbsnews.com/baltimore/news/latino-artwork-showcased-at-chesapeake-arts-center-represent-their-histories/

Commissioned by the Chesapeake Gateway Chamber of Commerce, this permanent public artwork replaces the long-standing Essex Cube and welcomes over 30,000 passersby daily in Essex, Maryland.

I designed and illustrated the monument’s four-panel lighthouse, with each side exploring a different theme—past, present, and future—through vibrant visual storytelling. The artwork features symbolic elements like a tribute to the historic Sky Park, the 1975 Super Sunday Festival, local businesses, and the Chesapeake Bay’s unique wildlife. The piece celebrates Essex’s identity and evolution, honoring its history while reflecting the spirit of growth, resilience, and community pride.

Panel artwork by Camila Leão. Metal sculpture by Tim Scofield. 2022.

Commissioned by Fine Acts for a creative collaboration with the Democracy & Belonging Forum, an initiative by Othering & Belonging Institute at UC Berkeley (OBI), 2022. 

More information here.

https://fineacts.co/belonging

18' x 16' / Baltimore, MD / 2023

Created as part of the Urban Oasis Mural Project, an initiative of Artscape Baltimore, this JFX underpass pillar mural blends Maryland’s native ecology with urban vitality. Featuring regional flora like sweetbay magnolia, cardinal flower, black-eyed Susans, and fauna like the great blue heron, northern salamander, and American bullfrog in bold geometric forms and vibrant colors inspired by my Brazilian heritage, the design reflects both the local environment and cultural hybridity, supporting the project’s mission of transforming public infrastructure into community-centered landmarks.

Commissioned by Howard County as part of a community beautification initiative, I designed and installed four permanent vinyl artworks on existing bus shelters. Locations include Howard Community College in Columbia, Washington Blvd & Dorsey Rd in Elkridge, and both sides of Courthouse Dr. in Ellicott City.

Created as a cohesive series, the murals transform everyday transit spaces into vibrant, site-specific artworks that celebrate the region’s identity. The designs incorporate flowing lines, local fauna, and agricultural elements to reflect movement, energy, and community pride.

I led the full process, from concept and illustration, to file prep and on-site installation, ensuring each piece was visually impactful, durable, and tailored to its surroundings. Beyond visual enhancement, the murals provide shelter users with shade, color, and a sense of place.

65' x 5' / Towson, MD / 2025

Commissioned by Exxon, this mural brings color and energy to the heart of Towson. A “Hello Towson” greeting is surrounded by radiant beams, playful patterns, and festive details. A central tiger nods to Exxon’s historic branding and Towson University’s mascot, while a bird, rainbow weave, and lush foliage celebrate the area’s natural beauty. Bright flowers and ornamental accents tie the composition together, creating a joyful, eye-catching landmark designed to uplift the community.

77' x 13' / Towson, MD / 2023

Commissioned by Dulaney Plaza, this large-scale mural celebrates the vibrant spirit of the Towson community. The design reflects the region’s natural ecosystem, local businesses, sports culture (mascots), and diversity. Bold colors, flowing compositions, and stylized forms create a high-impact visual that enhances the public space while honoring local identity.

36' x 11' / Washington, D.C. / 2025

Commissioned by NoMa Bid for the 10th anniversary edition of the NoMa in Color Festival, this mural celebrates NoMa’s dogs and the joy they bring to daily life. Inspired by one of my first jobs in the country as a dog walker in the neighborhood, the piece reflects my personal connection to NoMa while honoring its community spirit. Playful portraits of pups blend with bold Brazilian-inspired patterns and colors, creating a joyful fusion of local identity and cultural heritage. Selected as one of 20 artists for this milestone festival, the mural serves as both a love letter to NoMa and a celebration of my full-circle journey as an artist.

Illustrations for Baltimore Magazine May Edition, 2024 - Article about women in the trade industry.
Additional personal feature on the contributor's section.

Illustrated Marshmallow Dreams, a heartfelt children’s picture book written by Michael and Matilda Collins. The story follows an imaginative pug dog on a magical journey through sky, space, and sea, discovering the power of friendship and love to overcome despair. 

Inspired by my Brazilian heritage and love for tropical nature, I brought their vision to life with vibrant, whimsical illustrations that capture the book’s timeless message of hope, imagination, and community. 

This self-published book was a rewarding collaboration celebrating the magic found in new bonds and dreams coming true. 

Baltimore, MD, 2025.