"Let me tell you a bit about myself."

PERSONAL  MEMOIR

currently "in the works."

- Leslie Cartwright -

I am a lucky mother to three handsome young men, one of whom has autism. I am currently revising a draft of my journey over the past twenty years as mother, advocate,  and soul searcher. The process of writing this memoir has been cathartic and I have gained new perspective and insight as I reflect back over these often tumultuous times. Scroll down to sign up for my newsletter (bottom right hand corner of page) to be informed of my progress, new art works and ramblings in the back country of the East Kootenay region in British Columbia, Canada.

"For me, painting is like listening to music. It should evoke a feeling, a mood, or bring forth a memory. After all, isn't a picture supposed to be worth a thousand words?"

I am primarily a self-taught artist. There are no certificates or degrees from any prestigious art institution hanging on my walls. Just paint splatter and gesso! I have just always made art in some shape or form throughout my entire life.

I love the outdoors and I am often out hiking with my dog and my camera. I use my own photographs for reference in my paintings. 

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I remember vividly, as a little girl, the first time I saw a book of Robert Bateman's art. It was left open on a coffee table at a house where I was a guest. I perused the volume of works in awe and thought to myself, "I wonder if I can do that someday?" In October of 2014, I was one of ten lucky artists who, over the course of a week, observed, conversed and joked with "Bob" at the Master Artist's Seminar at Hollyhock on Cortes Island, B.C.

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In autumn of 2012, I first met  renowned Wildlife Artist, Terry Isaac. I had enrolled in a five-day workshop with Terry who, quite literally, changed the way that I paint. I was so enraptured with Terry's way of teaching and art that I traveled to work with him again the next year at his Penticton Gallery. In the spring of 2018, Terry was my guest, as he agreed to teach a weekend workshop in my hometown of Canal Flats, B.C.

I am deeply indebted to Terry Isaac for the profound impact that he has had on my painting. I am privileged to have known Terry as a teacher, mentor and friend.

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In 2019 I ventured away from the regular 9 to 5 days in an office setting and now happily accept commissions, edit my memoir, ( more on that below ) and try to soak up as much fresh air and sunshine as possible. 

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- Art is one of those things we simply must do so that our spirits may grow.

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Thank you for visiting my website.