Artist Statement
I am a multimedia artist whose practice is centered around healing – both as a product and process. I gravitate toward natural materials such as sticks, stones, plants, bones, and light. My work often begins with exploring the natural world. This is where I feel most connected, present, and observant. Being in nature offers both inspiration and relief, which assists with curiosity and expression.
Art is a powerful healing conduit for me. It is an avenue of transcending difficult circumstances, exploring the depths of grief, as well as a way to mend my sorrows and pain. Through artistic processes, I delve into personal growth and experience dynamic transformation. Nature is a vital component of these practices and is a common thread/metaphor throughout my artwork.
While photography ceramics are my favorite mediums, I enjoy exploring any and all materials and love to experiment with new techniques. Through photographs, sculptures, drawings, digital collages, and installations, I create representations of healing experiences and emotions through visual metaphors. I use contrast, layering, asymmetrical balance, light, and shadow to explore dichotomies, balance, and cycles of life. This is done with the intention better understand myself and the world around me, as well as to share insights learned throughout my artistic and healing processes. Ultimately, my practice conveys healing and emotions through a metaphorical lens, offering an opportunity for moments of stillness and introspection.
Bio
Tess Carpenter is a multimedia artist who was born and raised in the outskirts of Denver, Colorado. As a current BFA student at the Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design, she explores themes of nature and healing through a variety of media. By immersing herself in the natural world, she brings elements of nature into her artistic practice to further her healing processes. In addition to many exhibitions in and around Colorado, Carpenter has exhibited her ceramics at the National Ceramics Educators Conference of America (NCECA). She has exhibited her photography multiple international exhibition venues, including London, Amsterdam, Tel Aviv, and Saint Gilles Croix de Vie.