Tessa's Figure Paintings

I am often asked why I choose the figure. For me, the body provides both an immediate sensual experience and a timeless calm. When a person sits to be painted, whether they are friend, family, lover or hired model, they become still. I can feel a centered-ness and connection between us, even as strangers. Though I experience the same connection with the landscape, it is thrilling to feel the powerful connection that is possible between two bodies once they have chosen to share a concentrated stillness. I believe that if we all slow down and become aware of this connection, it has the potential to heal much of the pain we cause as humans.