Elaine Leslie

I'm a recently retired architect who has traded blueprints for charcoal/graphite pencils. With a career spent designing structures that blend functionality and aesthetic appeal, I now find joy in capturing the intricate beauty of animals and the natural world through my drawings.

Throughout my professional journey, I developed a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the harmony found in architecture. Now, armed with charcoal, I bring that same passion for precision and creativity to my artwork, striving to convey the essence and spirit of every subject I depict.

My transition from drafting boards to sketchbooks has been a liberating experience. It allows me to immerse myself in the quietude of nature, where every leaf, feather, or ripple in the water becomes a source of inspiration.

Retirement has granted me the gift of time—a precious resource I now invest in exploring new techniques, honing my skills, and deepening my connection with the natural world.

I believe that art has the power to evoke emotion, provoke thought, and foster appreciation for the wonders that surround us. Through my drawings, I hope to share the beauty and intricacy of nature with others, inviting them to pause, observe, and find their own mo...

I began my college journey in art but quickly realized I didn't have what it took to make a career of it. I eventually graduated with a BS in math and, as a side job, started drawing residential plans for contractors. That blossomed into a 46 year career as a designer.