Leslie Jen

Background

About Leslie Jen

Leslie holds degrees in English Literature and Law from the University of Saskatchewan, and a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of British Columbia. For nearly 12 years, she was the Associate Editor of Canadian Architect magazine – the journal of record of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada – during which time she contributed significantly to the discourse of architecture and urbanism in Canada. In her current role as a marketing consultant at Toronto-based architecture firm superkül, Leslie works to develop the distinctive brand of the studio through focused research, strategic communication initiatives and promotional opportunities. Additionally, she maintains a consultancy practice, undertaking writing and editing projects for several design magazines, award-winning architectural firms and arts organizations. Leslie's recent book, titled Canadian Architecture: Evolving a Cultural Identity, surveys 33 practices and their work across the country and beyond, a testament to a thriving and diverse national design culture. Following a September 2021 Canadian release by Figure 1 Publishing, the book is now available in the US and abroad. Previously, she co-curated and co-produced the exhibition Temp at bulthaup Toronto, featuring the work of accomplished architect and photographer Brent Wagler. Additionally, she was involved in an advisory and editorial capacity for the fourth iteration of Twenty + Change, an exhibition and publication series focused on emerging Canadian architectural and design practices. An invited jury member for exhibitions and awards programs, Leslie has also participated as an external reviewer for Master of Architecture final thesis presentations. Leslie is a Fellow of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, and sits on the Board of Directors of the DesignTO Festival. In 2010, she was honoured with inclusion in the Canadian Who’s Who, an authoritative reference publication released annually that lists prominent and notable Canadians selected on merit alone of their significant contributions to their country and the world beyond.