Born in the United States, Zoe Leonard emerged as a prominent figure in the contemporary art scene during the late 1980s. Her practice, which spans photography and sculpture, has been featured in major international platforms including Documenta IX and XII, as well as multiple Whitney Biennials.

Leonard is known for her meticulous approach to documenting the physical world, often focusing on the passage of time and the transformation of urban environments. Her work frequently employs analog photography to capture the details of storefronts, city streets, and archival materials, bridging the gap between personal observation and historical record.

In recent years, Leonard has continued to receive significant institutional recognition. Her ongoing contributions to the field are highlighted by her selection for the 2026 Venice Biennale, further cementing her status as a vital voice in contemporary visual culture.