The paintings of Leslie Pratt-Thomas, though varied in content, portray the natural world through her unique life experience. Having lived in Canada, New England, Colorado and finally Charleston, SC she is "at home" painting a wide variety of subject matter. Her beginnings as a realist showcased her ability to capture light on a creek, a shorebird, or a shrimp boat; and she says now, after 20 plus years of daily painting, that she is just beginning to "get it." Armed with knowledge, dedication, and her own personal style, she is creating work that is garnering national and international recognition. She is primarily self-taught learning most from her consistent weekly practice - painting "en plein air" (or in the open), and on these adventures is often accompanied by her canine companion. Early in her career she frequented weekly classes from local instructors and various workshops while pursuing the fundamentals of painting. She still travels annually to work with noted artists for specific skills she wishes to enhance and she is happy to share her knowledge. For several years she has taught small groups in her studio, as well as occasional workshops. "Teaching the rudiments and subtleties of oil painting is pure pleasure; seeing my students' perspectives and growth reminds me of when I first started painting and began viewing the world through an artistic lens - there is nothing like reliving that excitement with them."