Lesley was born and grew up in the Chicago area. She studied fine arts at the School of the Art Institute in Chicago and at other institutions as she moved over time.

After living in Italy for three years she returned to the U.S. and completed her bachelor's degree in environmental science and art.

She has developed and is most known for her singular painting style, often employing vibrant colors and primitive animal imagery. She is also currently working on new abstract paintings, a series of black and white drawings and has returned to working in ceramics. The ceramic project has taken the form of individually made little fishes, which she makes into brooches or pendants.