I am delighted to introduce North London-based artist Tess Shennan, as the first Insider for a long time (more on that soon!) Tess is connected to her surroundings at home and in her local area. She finds that painting immersed in nature creates a multi-sensory effect that adds a layer of depth to her work.
Tess talks about how her experience of the pandemic, like for many of us, led her to find comfort in nature and changed the way that she worked, encouraging her to take her art full-time.
Describe who you are and what you do.
My name is Tess and I’m an abstract artist based in North London. My work is focused on nature and people I am close to.
What led you on your path?
I think I’ve always been an artist. From a young age I was always interested in ‘making’ things. It’s something that’s been with me since childhood.
I studied art throughout school and then went on to study English at university which led to a full time job within the arts, combining two of my passions. I was lucky enough to take a short sabbatical from my day job to pursue my love of art. During this time, I undertook two courses, one at the Art Academy in Borough, and the other was at The Slade School, UCL. As well as the courses, I spent time in Paris and New York visiting all the galleries and museums.
When I was placed on furlough during the coronavirus pandemic, I used the opportunity to make painting a full-time job. I worked on canvas after canvas, built my website, and from there, TShennanArt, was born.
Where is home for you?
I live in Kentish Town, North London with my boyfriend. The area has such a great sense of community, and we love being so close to Hampstead Heath, Regent’s Park and other green spaces in the area which have been of such importance, during the pandemic in particular. Home will also always be with my parents in Buckinghamshire where I grew up.
Why is capturing nature important to you?
During the pandemic, nature and the outdoors were absolutely essential for me. In such an uncertain and frightening world, nature was unspoilt, consistent, and beautiful and provided me with a real sense of comfort. My artwork during 2020 was hugely inspired by this which led to my creation of the ‘Abstract Florals’ collection. Many of the paintings were inspired by plants and flowers I spotted on my many walks during the lockdown.
Where is your favourite place to paint?
I absolutely love painting outdoors, particularly when working on nature pieces. I find I can totally escape in this setting, with no distractions, and I think it adds a depth to my work when I paint outdoors.
Painting outdoors really helps me feel continually inspired and stimulated during the process. When I am outside, I have the subject in front of me, but I also become aware of all of my other senses. I think this can add something extra, something special to the piece that I can’t quite put my finger on. It’s a total senses experience.
How would you describe your home?
As much as I love painting outside, predominantly I do work indoors, which is at home in my North London flat. We have big windows and a lot of bright, natural light which is fantastic to work with. The flat is full of paintings and prints by myself and many other artists, which is great inspiration and adds lots of colour. We also have many, many books. My boyfriend founded a business focused on books and encouraging others to read, so our flat is pretty book/painting heavy!
Do you have a sacred space or favourite place in your studio?
I don’t have a specific favourite place. I have several corners of my home and studio which feel special in different ways. One of my favourite spaces actually is in my bedroom at about 7pm in the summer-time when the light is so stunning through the windows, it’s the ultimate golden hour and never gets old.
How does your connection to space play a part in your work?
Having a safe, calm and happy atmosphere at home creates the right mindset to work and live most effectively.
What rituals do you carry out in your home/studio?
I wouldn’t say I have rituals as such, but I do have certain things that I discovered during the pandemic which make me feel secure. When I am preparing to start painting, I lay out all my materials in a certain order and always make a cup of tea. I also love listening to podcasts when I work.
If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
I would love to live in a European city like Paris or Barcelona, or of course New York, for a year or two. I have visualised myself there living those city life dreams, but I don’t think I’d like to settle anywhere other than in the UK. I’m quite a home bird at heart.
Find out more about Laura’s offerings,
Visit Tess’ website to view works for sale
Follow Tess on Instagram for uplifting and joyful visual inspiration
