One of Leslie’s parents worked at Reynolda House Museum of American Art, and she grew up running through the house’s warming kitchens and up and down the back passageways. Over the years, the artwork on the museum walls made an impression on her as well, leading her to earn an MFA in Book Arts from the University of Iowa. Her artwork includes drawing, printmaking, papermaking and bookbinding. As the Director of the Graphics and Textiles programs, she supports instructors, develops courses, and guides the direction of the programs. She will soon be starting a letterpress program in the printmaking department and is very excited about the cross-disciplinary possibilities between visual art and writing. “I think everyone should have the beautiful experience of artist’s flow. Flow is when you become wholly immersed in what you are doing, so that you lose track of time; the next decision of which color or material to use takes center stage. The hectic world recedes and you remember the friendship we have with our hands and materials. Sawtooth offers this opportunity to people every day. I think it is the best possible gift.” Contact Leslie: Email: lesliesmith@sawtooth.org Phone: 336-723-7395, ex 1214