An important theme in Leendert’s practice is that the artwork is central. His work does not arise from an appropriation of an artistic identity of himself as a maker, only to confirm it later. His art also does not need text. The art object should not merely serve as a physical metaphor for a concept. In such a case, it is almost as if the concept becomes the artwork, not the presented work. Leendert’s goal is to create works that speak for themselves, allowing for various interpretations. If you see something different in it than what Leendert intended, that’s okay because it creates dialogue.
This thought also forms the basis of how his works come into being. Leendert doesn’t first draw up a plan and then look for the necessary materials. Instead, he finds something that appeals to him and lets the object guide him in transforming it into an artwork. Leendert doesn’t create new things; there is already so much. Instead, he finds, collects, and assembles. This approach also grants him freedom. When you buy materials, you first have to acquire money. Once you have it, you can only spend it once, putting much more pressure on the creation process. It has to be right the first time because you’re sacrificing something for it. Leendert’s approach spares him from such burdens. By rearranging what already exists, he has nothing to lose. He who has nothing to lose is free.