Leslie's original work explores issues that are pressing and provocative, but always part of the deeper human experience. Human rights, women's issues, and the universal search for spirituality as well as challenging historical events are sources of inspiration.
A giant hawk made of ribbons to a sea turtle with the globe on her shell, Leslie's designs span the range of puppetry forms and techniques to delight audiences from all walks of life.
From a 36 foot geodesic dome transformed into an interactive shadow experience for 150,000 spectators on the beach in Santa Monica, to an historical original play performed in a turn-of-the-century mansion in Pasadena, Leslie has created exciting and diverse forms of art across Los Angeles and beyond.
Leslie has been teaching for school districts, nonprofit organizations, and communities for many years, always energized by the creativity of her students. Her workshops cover a wide variety of puppetry and visual arts techniques and can be geared for any age level and diverse learning styles. She is a CA credentialed teacher with a Masters in Deaf Education/Special Education.
Using traditional forms such as printmaking, paper making, and sculpture, Leslie tries to push boundaries while staying true to hands-on approaches.