Teresa Welling - Graphite Pencil Drawings

Artist Statement:

I enjoy the process of working with pencil and paper, striving for realism while prioritizing my own vision over external opinions. My goal is to capture the beauty of life and share that joy with others. I am particularly fascinated by the interactions among species, as these connections are essential for survival. 

Currently, I am focusing on hyper-realism through my drawings of animals, amphibians, reptiles, and birds. My aim is to provide insights into their species while crafting an engaging narrative that educates and entertains. My artwork often highlights the symbiotic relationships between these creatures.
 
My art reflects my deep passion for all forms of life. When something captivates my spirit, I feel compelled to draw it, dedicating hours to depict every detail accurately. I often draw from multiple photographs, primarily my own, but I also use additional reference materials to ensure accuracy in features such as noses, eyes, feet, and hair/fur. Sometimes, I come across other images that inspire me and incorporate them into my drawings while referencing their sources.

 I use a variety of high-quality, heavy, acid-free papers (100lb and 140 lb), including Bristol Vellum, Hot-Pressed watercolor, Bristol Plate, and Bristol Smooth. These materials, combined with Mitsubishi graphite pencils and tiny mechanical pencils (.02, .03, .05), allow me to create meticulously detailed artwork that ensures an authentic and lifelike representation, adding value and quality to each piece.

Artist Bio:

Teresa was raised in Crawford, Nebraska, and Ekalaka, Montana. She completed her high school education in Crawford in 1966. In 1975, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Chadron State College, majoring in Art with a minor in the same field. 

After obtaining her degree, Teresa opened a small gallery in Greeley, Colorado, where she operated for three years. Later, she transitioned to the restaurant industry and ran businesses with her husband in Laramie and Sheridan, Wyoming, for 17 years. 

Upon retiring from the restaurant sector, Teresa returned to her family farm in Chadron, Nebraska. There, she worked as a substitute teacher for Chadron Public Schools and engaged in interior design remodeling older houses. 

Currently, she resides in Laramie, Wyoming, with her son. In 2023, Teresa renewed her commitment to her artistic practice and began her work as a professional graphite artist.