Born and then raised in Sarnia, Ontario , in 1976, Lesli has been active in both drawing and photography since childhood. Her subsequent interests in both sports and helping others led to earning a BA with plans to become a sports psychologist or an art therapist. However, it was Lesli's unyielding passion for art that ultimately directed her back to her creative roots. She studied documentary/photojournalism at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco under Director, James B. Wood and then classical realism drawing at the Academy of Realist Art in Toronto, under Director, Fernando Freitas.

     Additionally, Lesli gained valuable field experience working as a freelance photojournalist and then as a photo archivist/digital asset manager, when not in school. In 2008, she began accepting graphite portrait commissions, which can be found in multiple private collections in Ontario.

     Lesli's profound enthusiasm for people, sports and the outdoors continues to provide tremendous inspiration for her work and she is eternally grateful to God for the passions and giftings He has given her.

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