Hi, I’m Leslie.
I am an artist and poet who helps others find joy and transformation through art and nature connection.
I guide mindful nature journaling and nature infused art classes, workshops, and retreats in Connecticut and online.
Art with Heart
My goal is for people to connect with each other, the natural world, and their creative hearts while finding moments of peace and joy through the process of creating art.
My Approach
Connection + Heart = Joy + Fun
I believe that creating art in community can be joyful for everyone.
I lead my students in exploration of art materials and processes through experiential learning in classes such as Watercolor, Art Journey, Nature Journaling (sketching and writing one’s personal nature observations), and Poetry.
I focus on building a welcoming, positive, caring, mindful, and supportive community atmosphere based on enjoyment of the creative process, without focusing on a specific outcome. I have learned that in this relaxed setting, students can start to free themselves to enjoy the experience and the work that comes out of it.
What students are saying about Leslie’s classes
“As a retired educator and administrator, I came to Leslie’s class with deep curiosity but no artistic background. In a remarkably short time, she helped me discover a creative confidence I did not know I had, and I now truly feel that I am finding my inner artist.
What sets Leslie apart is her extraordinary gift for creating an artistic environment that is not only welcoming and inspiring, but deeply affirming. She meets every student exactly where they are and helps them grow with confidence and a sense of personal expression. Her teaching is rooted in genuine care and generosity of spirit, and the thoughtful attention she gives to each individual makes every class feel both meaningful and transformative.
Time in Leslie’s class is truly one of the highlights of my week, and I leave each session feeling inspired, encouraged, and grateful to be learning from such a compassionate teacher.”
Paul
"Leslie is a warm, supportive teacher and person. She has an infectious sense of joy and love that brings out the best in all of her students.
I’m learning more from her how to connect with my gut to experience my inner thoughts, feelings, freedom, spontaneity and creativity! So, if you’re searching for someone to share your journey, help you open up and grow through art, then join a class and walk with Leslie.”
Julie
“Leslie has a gift for guiding people in such a way that those of us who don't think we are writers become writers. Nature Journaling with Leslie is a grounding experience, and as a participant I've connected with both the visual and written art exercises.
In my own case, I wrote something about nature so impactful for me that I made it into a permanent piece of art that is now on display in my home - that's success! ”
MaryRose
“It’s amazing what comes out if you just let go.” - Joan
"Flow your heart to your hand
Reflect on life
Observe with greatest detail
Find deeper meaning in your life!”
Leona
“Thank you for offering such a safe and beautiful space to create and get in touch with a part of me I had been missing.
It’s truly been a joy.”
Deidra
“Leslie has a way of making everyone feel comfortable and accepted, no matter where you are in your journey! Blending her passion for art with her love of nature is evident and makes for an enriching experience. I highly recommend one of her workshops!”
Cheryl
“Leslie provides a welcoming environment for creating.
She inspires joy in the process and freedom to explore the natural artist inside of us.”
Marsha
“Leslie's teaching style is supportive, encouraging, and nonjudgmental.
She inspires her students to explore new ways of expressing their emotions
and perceptions on paper.
Her students begin to see the world around them with the eyes of an artist.”
Jane
“Leslie’s encouragement and care have helped me soften into what is possible!”
Theresa
“What makes Leslie a good teacher is that she gives us permission to create and explore without fear of failure.”
Jess
“Leslie is a great art teacher. She inspires her students to ‘see’ the details and to feel confident that their interpretations and drawings are always good enough.
It’s fun to study with Leslie and the students she attracts.
Thank you Leslie for inspiring me to get a daily art habit going - I’m loving it!”
Lois
“Leslie has a broad knowledge base and an encouraging, supportive way of teaching. She encourages mindfulness and a playful, engaging approach to creating art.
I think very highly of her and would recommend her classes to everyone.”
Joanne