Lesley started her art training at Moseley Road Art School in Birmingham and then furthered her art training at Tyler College of Art in Philadelphia., U.S.A.

She more recently received a Diploma (with Distinction) from the London College of Art in 2001 and last year, a Diploma from the S.B.A. (Society of Botanical Artists).

Lesley was a finalist in two Design Competitions, firstly, in 1990 she was a finalist in the BBC's Clothes Show Knitting Competition, and secondly, in the London Science Museums, 'Dolly the Sheep – fleece, Design competition.

Lesley's botanical paintings have been exhibited at Westminster Hall in the Society of Botanical Artists annual exhibition.  Her 'Miniatures' have been exhibited at the Hilliard Society's annual exhibition in Wells,  and her silk work has been sold at Farfield Gallery, Sedbergh over the last 5 years.  Commissions have been received from clients in Britain, Spain,  Africa, the U.S.A. and Canada.  Members of the Royal Windermere Yacht Club commissioned her to make scarves, ties, bowties, purses and cushions for their centenary and also commisioned her to make a scarf to be presented to Princess Anne.  Her work has been featured in 'Classic Car Magazine, 'The Automobile', and  'The Aerostat'- the British Ballooning magazine.  Her work can be seen on her website – www.lesleynewman-art.co.uk

Also, on this site, click here for paintings and here for silk.