Submerged Splendors: Lesley's Pacific Northwest Marine & Aquatic Collection
Lesley, a passionate snorkeler from the scenic shores of Victoria on Vancouver Island, Canada, draws a deep well of inspiration from the rich marine life of the Pacific Northwest for her Aquatic & Marine Collection. Braving the brisk 7-degree Celsius waters with her indispensable snorkeling gear and donning a wetsuit, she immerses herself in a captivating underwater realm. Her adventurous explorations uncover a vibrant tapestry of marine biodiversity, from the delicate dance of sea cucumbers, anemones, and nudibranchs, to the serene presence of limpets, snails, and majestic kelp forests. She marvels at the ballet of jellyfish, swimming scallops, sea urchins, crabs, and seastars, all coexisting in a dynamic ecosystem where barnacles feed and feather-duster tube worms sway, amid a backdrop of seaweed, eel grass, and various kelp species. Each encounter not only deepens her fascination with marine biology but also compels her to diligently research every new species she meets. Lesley’s acrylic paintings, a vivid reflection of her snorkeling journeys, burst with life, capturing the vibrant colors, unique shapes, and fluid rhythms of this underwater wonderland. Her artwork not only encapsulates the essence of her experiences but also invites viewers into the mesmerizing world beneath the waves, where nature’s artistry unfolds in its most pristine form.