Today we’d like to introduce you to Monika Teal.
Hi Monika, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I am the child of a mother who grew up under Hitler and a father with a healthy dose of American Indian blood . Encouraged to get out of my small southern town and see the world and a close bond to nature and the earth have been strong influences in my artwork. A lifelong process in my art.
I am a double citizen, Swiss/American and lived in Europe for over 25 years, exhibiting and working in over 7 countries and the USA. My art is a reflection of how I experience the world I am not interested in trends.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I could never bear a smooth road. I thrive on learning and experiencing. Adapting and integrating are my challenges, as I am fascinated with the world that I am a part of. Languages and cultural norms are learned to open doors to get a better focus. It’s difficult, sometimes with a high price, but I would not change any of it. The more I experience the more my art helps me to understand.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My entire adult life has been making art to help me understand the world. I am an early feminist and very anti war.
My art speaks about my bond with the natural world and how my art reflects my interpretation and vision of the world through the eyes of a woman. These two expressions are my artistic reputation. I paint, draw, do assemblages. I work daily in order to understand the world.
What matters most to you? Why?
What matters to me the most? My art and my family. They both encourage me and understand me. These two give me a foundation to build and grow continually.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.monikateal.com
- Instagram: Monika Teal
- Facebook: Monika Teal
