LESLEY DRIVER
Born and raised in New Jersey, Lesley moved to Florida in 1990 and now divides her time between Palm City and Palm Beach Gardens. Lesley’s artistic journey has been shaped by a diverse educational background—she holds bachelor’s degrees in both Social Science/Psychology and Graphic Design, and further honed her craft studying illustration at Parsons School of Design (The New School) in New York City.
Artist Statement
As a fine artist, Lesley’s work explores the intersection of personal narrative and universal human experience, capturing moments that resonate deeply with viewers and provoke introspection. Her artistic process is rooted in a blend of storytelling, psychology, and keen observation, transforming complex emotions and ideas into visual expressions that inspire connection and thought.
Specializing in pen & ink, watercolor, and acrylics, Lesley delves into themes of resilience, identity, and the unseen forces that shape our lives. Each piece invites the audience to engage with layers of meaning—some readily apparent, others waiting to be discovered. Lesley strives to create a dialogue—a space where viewers can see their own stories reflected and discover new ways of seeing the world.
An example of this can be seen in Lesley's painting, "Waiting to Be":
In this poignant artwork, the artist masterfully captures the essence of being tethered by external restraints, depicted through a striking symbolism. A marionette, representing the individual, is held in place by unseen forces, unable to move freely or take control of their own life.
The marionette's strings are a metaphor for the various constraints—physical, emotional, financial—that can bind us and hold us back from living our best lives. Yet, amidst this struggle, a loyal dog sits nearby, symbolizing the presence of others who are waiting for or relying on the individual—whether it be a literal pet, a family member, a friend, teammate, or a professional relationship.
This piece speaks to the universal experience of feeling restrained and the longing for autonomy and agency. The contrast between the marionette's stillness and the dog's attentive presence creates a powerful visual narrative of resilience and hope.
"Waiting to Be" is a poignant reminder that, despite the challenges we face, there is always the possibility of breaking free from our constraints and reclaiming control over our destinies.
Lesley Driverhttps://drivenprintanddesign.com
